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Children's Day (Kodomo no hi) is celebrated on 5th
May in Japan. It is a national holiday on which all children are
celebrated and their mothers are honoured.
Children's Day Traditions
Until recently, 5th May was known as Boy's Day (Tango
no Sekku, or the Feast of Banners), so many of the traditional
celebrations on Children's Day come from Boy's Day.
Carp Kites (koinobori)
Families with boys hang colorful carp kites, called
Koinobori, outside their houses - one for each boy, with the biggest
representing the oldest boy at the top. The kites flutter in the wind
and look beautiful, as you can see in the photo above! In Japanese
culture, the carp (or koi) represents courage and perseverance, as the
fish is known for its strength and determination as it swims against the
current upstream. The carp kite symbolises each family's wish for their
sons to grow up brave and strong.
Families with boys display a model of Kintaro, a Japanese folk hero.
Kintaro was a boy of superhuman strength who grew up to be a famous
warrior, and again he represents the wish of the family for their boys
to be brave and strong.
The Samurai were the most noble warriors of Japan, and the Samurai
Helmet which they wore also
symbolizes strength and courage and is often worn by boys on Children's
Day.
Here is a Samurai warrior from the 19th Century in full armour!
Expand your knowledge of Japan and Japanese culture by visiting our "Japan
for Kids" theme, and try your hand at some more Japanese related
crafts, play some traditional Japanese games, and enjoy our coloring
pages and printables. Japan for Kids
Visit our origami section for traditional Japanese origami models (and
lots of new origami designs,
perfect for kids, too). Origami for Kids
Learn about a little girl called Sadako Sasashi, and discover how she
inspired this beautiful monument to world peace, the Children's Peace
Monument, nearly 50 years ago. The monument was unveiled on Children's
Day 1948 and is visited by thousands of children each year. Learn about Sadako Sasashi
Squabbling
siblings? Chores not getting done? The Better Behavior Wheel
can help! This unique parenting tool will give you well behaved kids and a stress
free environment. Download instantly and get the
