Children's Day in Japan: Traditions and Events

Children’s Day in Japan: May 5

Established as a Japanese national holiday in 1948, Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi) is observed every May 5, and is part of Japan's Golden Week.

This day celebrates children’s unique personalities and promotes their well-being, while also expressing gratitude toward mothers. Above all, it serves as an occasion to pray for the healthy growth and happiness of all children.

Boys and Girls Both Celebrate Children’s Day

Originally known as Boy’s Day, the May 5th holiday was traditionally a time to wish for the healthy growth of sons. Since its transition to Children’s Day in 1948, it has become a celebration for all children, regardless of gender.

However, the holiday's origins remain visible in the traditional decorations still used by families with boys, such as koinobori (carp streamers), armor headpieces, and samurai dolls.

Koinobori: Symbols of Strength and Success

Koinobori are carp-shaped streamers flown in gardens to wish for a child's health and future success. This tradition originated in 17th-century samurai households and is inspired by the Chinese legend of a carp that, by swimming up a waterfall, transforms into a powerful dragon.

Today, as May 5th nears, these colorful streamers can be seen fluttering against the blue sky across Japan. Beyond symbolizing success, they serve as charms to ward off evil spirits and embody a parent’s hope for their children to grow up resilient and strong.

Many regions also host special Children’s Day events, where hundreds of koinobori are displayed together in a spectacular show.

Famous Koinobori Displays in Japan

Japan has several spectacular large-scale koinobori displays, which take place from around the end of April until May 5. Here are some of the most famous locations:

1. Tokyo Tower: An Urban Tradition

Tokyo Tower hosts an annual display of 333 koinobori—one for every meter of the tower’s height.

Among the colorful carp, look for the lone "Sanmanobori" (Pacific Saury streamer), which is a tribute to the city of Ofunato, a major saury fishing port that was severely affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.

2. Tatebayashi (Gunma): A World Record Display

Picture courtesy of Gunma Prefecture

Tatebayashi City holds the Guinness World Record for the largest koinobori festival. During the Koinobori no Sato Matsuri, over 5,000 streamers are flown across five different locations in the city.

The main site at the Tsuruuda River is particularly stunning, as the colorful fish reflect in the water, creating the illusion of thousands more.

3. Tsuetate Onsen (Kumamoto): The Birthplace of the Festival

Tsuetate Onsen, a hot spring town in Kumamoto, is credited with starting the modern tradition of hanging streamers across rivers over 40 years ago. Roughly 3,500 koinobori are strung across the Tsuetate River.

The sight of the carp fluttering between the narrow valley walls, surrounded by the steam of the hot springs, is incredibly atmospheric.

4. Koinobori Festa 1000 in Osaka

During the Koinobori Festa 1000, one thousand streamers are stretched across the Akutagawa River, which is located between Osaka and Kyoto.

This location is a popular spot for families because the riverbanks are wide and grassy, making it perfect for picnics and live performances.

5. Koinobori at the Ryujin Great Suspension Bridge

Photo by Pixta

For an unforgettable Golden Week experience, head to Hitachiota in Ibaraki, where the Ryujin Great Suspension Bridge hosts a magnificent display of koinobori.

Hundreds of carp banners soar above the stunning Ryujin Gorge, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Other Traditions for Children's Day

Photo by Pixta

To celebrate Children's Day, Japanese households traditionally enjoy Kashiwa-mochi—sweet, chewy rice cakes filled with bean paste and wrapped in a medicinal oak leaf (kashiwa).

Because oak trees do not shed their old leaves until new buds appear, they symbolize the prosperity of one’s descendants.

Iris flowers (Hanashobu) are also deeply connected to the holiday. Their sharp, sword-like leaves represent strength and the samurai spirit.

To celebrate, many people visit iris festivals, such as the famous Suigo Itako Iris Festival near Tokyo or the various botanical gardens and parks throughout the city.