Flying Fish for Children's Day

On May 5, Japan celebrates Children's Day. It is a time to wish children health and happiness. One colorful tradition is hanging fish-shaped streamers outside. These decorations are called koinobori. They look like carp, a kind of fish found in lakes and rivers.

Why choose carp? These fish can swim against a current, or moving water. That takes strength. The carp streamers stand for the hope that children will grow strong and keep trying when something is difficult. The fish shapes carry a special wish.

A heavy fish model would be hard for the wind to lift. Makers solve this problem by using light cloth or paper. Each streamer is shaped like a long tube with an open mouth. Painted eyes and scales help it look like a fish.

Families hang the streamers from poles or lines where breezes can reach them. Wind enters the open mouths and fills the tubes. The tails flutter, making the fish seem to swim. A photo of this scene could have the caption, “Swimming in the Sky.”

The celebration includes special foods, too. Some families eat kashiwa mochi, soft rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves. The leaves are used as wrappers and are not eaten. Sharing a treat is another way families enjoy this day together.