Kenkoku Kinen no Hi, or National Foundation Day, is a national holiday celebrated on the 11th of February. It marks the foundation of Japan and the accession of its first emperor, Emperor Jimmu in 660 BC. Although the celebrations are rather modest compared to the fireworks and parades common in other countries, festivals such as the "kenkoku-sai" are held at various shrines and temples. One large commemoration is held at the Kashihara Shrine in Nara Prefecture, believed to be built on the site where Jimmu became emperor over 2,600 years ago.