Today is a special day in Japan called Children’s Day. This is the last day during Golden Week, which is really important in Japan. Children’s Day used to exclusively celebrate boyhood (or just males), just like Hinamatsuri (Doll Day) previously only celebrated girlhood. Now this day is used to recognize both boys and girls, fathers and mothers. It is now called Kodomo no Hi, Children’s Day.
What they do is fly Koinobori, or cloth carp streamers to represent each child in the household. The carp are supposed to bring good luck and fortune to the children. They want them to be strong just like how the koi fish is when fighting upstream. In an old Chinese legend there is a carp that travels upstream then becomes a dragon. That actually represents childhood in a nutshell it seems. Life can be like this crazy upward battle. In the end, the hope is that you become powerful, like a dragon!
Maybe you didn’t know about Children’s Day until today. I, frankly, love this idea and the symbolism is wonderful. Not only that, but I’ve always wanted to purchase some carp streamers for my house, so today is my chance! There are lots of color options for carp streamers on Amazon.
Some families sometimes will display a kabuto (Samurai helmet). This is mostly traditional and symbolizes strength and vitality. Not only will the helmet be displayed but sometimes samurai dolls. Similar to Doll Day, but more male oriented. Lot’s of these dolls come from old folktales in Japan, also symbolizing strength.
Other things that are done is consume rice cakes stuffed with sweet bean paste. It’s wrapped in a oak leaf. Oh yum! This is supposed to promote strength. Iris’s are placed throughout the house and around to ward off evil. Some families have their kids bathe with Iris leaves, that’s traditional.
If you want to learn more about the history of Children’s Day, take a look at these websites:
About Japan: Kodomo no hi: Children’s Day Celebration
Japan Talk: 2016 Children’s Day in Japan