Children's Day (Japan)


Children's Day is a Japanese national holiday which takes place annually on May 5 and is the final celebration in Golden Week. It is a day set aside to respect children's personalities and to celebrate their happiness. It was designated a national holiday by the Japanese government in 1948. It has been a day of celebration in Japan since ancient times.

History

The day was originally called Tango no sekkuone of the five annual ceremonies held at the imperial courtand was celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth moon in the Chinese calendar. After Japan switched to the Gregorian calendar, the date was moved to May 5. Until 1948, Children's Day was known as Boys' Day, celebrating boys and recognizing fathers, as the counterpart to Hinamatsuri, or "Girl's Day" on. In 1948, the name was changed to Children's Day to include both male and female children, as well as recognizing mothers along with fathers and family qualities of unity.

Celebration

On this day, families raise the koinobori, which are carp-shaped windsock, with a black carp for the father, a red or pink for the mother, and one carp for each child. Traditionally, when celebrated as Boys’ Day, the red koinobori was for the eldest son with blue and additional colors for younger brothers. Families may also display a samurai doll, sometimes riding on a large carp, and/or the traditional Japanese military helmet, kabuto, due to their tradition as symbols of strength and vitality.
Kashiwa-mochi and chimaki are traditionally served on this day.