Why do they celebrate tanabata

It was during this period that the tradition of writing wishes on tanzaku and hanging them from branches of bamboo appeared. The expression of hopes and dreams is not limited to tanzaku. Traditional decorations and talismans include colorful streamers called fukinagashi that represent threads for those wanting to be better weavers and gossamer amikazari symbolizing wishes by fishermen for full nets.

There are also hanging kinchaku bags for prosperity and orizuru folded cranes for longevity. Items are easily constructed from origami and other light, colorful materials. In the past, ornament-laden bamboo branches were placed in rivers to be carried away by the current as a means of ensuring that wishes would be granted.

However, modern environmental consciousness has seen this tradition largely fall by the wayside. Bamboo is thought to have become a part of the tanabata tradition for its propensity to grow straight and tall, with upward stretching branches bearing wishes to heaven on the wind. The plant was also believed to ward off insects and was displayed to protect rice crops and symbolize hopes of a bountiful harvest.

The long, thin noodles evolved from a woven Chinese sweet known in Japanese as sakubei , whose intertwined strands were thought to resemble both the Milky Way and the weaving threads worked by Orihime. Many parents will amuse their children by topping noodles with star-shaped slices of boiled okra.

Do you think the story of Orihime and Hikoboshi was a happy or sad story? Tanabata Activities Visit our Japan profile page for a detailed map, photographs, infographic and more.

Make tanzakus. Cut rectangles from colorful construction paper, and punch a hole in the top. Write personal wishes, and use string or ribbon to hang the tansakus.

Star Festival Origami from Origami Club. Directions for making stars, streamers, ornaments, and more. The Orihime and Hikoboshi origami dolls are adorable! Teaching ideas, crafts, songs, videos and worksheets from Japanese Teaching Ideas. Other countries in Asia have similar festivals on and around July 7. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Accept Read More. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website.

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