Have you heard of the Tanabata Festival (七夕祭り- Tanabata Matsuri) in Japan?
The most famous Tanabata Festival is held in Sendai in August every year. Similar to the many other festivals in Japan, there are many stalls and games along the streets where the festival is held.
At the Sendai Tanabata festival, people use seven different kinds of decorations which have different symbolic meanings to each of them.
1. Paper Kimono (Kamigoromo)
- To wish for improvement in sewing and artistic skills.
2. Paper Strips (Tazaku)
- To wish for improvement in studies and calligraphy.
3. Net (Toami)
- To wish for good fish harvest. The second meaning to it is to wish for good collection of fortune.
4. Streamers (Fukinagashi)
- To wish for improvement in handicrafts and weaving skills.
5. Trash Bag (Kuzukago)
- To wish for cleanliness and thrift.
6. Origami Cranes (Senbatsuru)
- To wish for longevity and health.
7. Purse (Kinchaku)
- To wish for wealth and flourishing business as well as thrift.
For more information, feel free to browse the link here. And if you are interested, make a trip down to Sendai next year and enjoy the festival!
