Koinobori and Children’s Day: A Joyful Celebration of Childhood in Japan

In Japan, the skies come alive with colour and motion every year in early May, thanks to the beautiful tradition of Koinobori—carp-shaped windsocks flown in celebration of Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi). Held on May 5th, this national holiday honours children’s health, happiness, and strength. It’s a time when families come together to celebrate the unique spirit of childhood, and it’s rich with symbolism, history, and joyful decoration.

What Are Koinobori?

Koinobori (鯉のぼり) literally means “carp streamer.” These decorative flags are shaped like koi fish, a symbol of perseverance and courage in Japanese culture. According to an old Chinese legend, a koi fish once swam upstream and leapt over a waterfall, eventually becoming a dragon. This powerful story represents the determination and resilience parents wish for their children. Traditionally, families fly a series of koinobori outside their homes from late April to early May. A typical set includes:

• A black koi(magoi) for the father
• A red or pink koi (higoi) for the mother
• And one smaller coloured koi for each child in the family

The koinobori are strung on a pole, with the largest at the top, and they flutter beautifully in the wind—bright symbols of strength and family.

The Origins of Children’s Day

Children’s Day was once known as Tango no Sekku, part of the traditional Japanese calendar of seasonal festivals. It originally celebrated boys and their growth into strong and honourable men, while a similar festival, Hinamatsuri, was held in March to celebrate girls. However, in 1948, the Japanese government renamed the holiday Kodomo no Hi, officially celebrating the happiness of all children, regardless of gender.

On this day, families often display samurai helmets (kabuto) or warrior dolls, symbols of protection and bravery. Many also enjoy special foods like kashiwa mochi (rice cakes filled with red bean paste and wrapped in oak leaves) and chimaki (sweet rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves).

How to Celebrate or Craft Your Own Koinobori

You don’t have to be in Japan to join in the joy of Children’s Day. Making your own koinobori is a fun and meaningful project for families, schools, or community groups. You can use paper, fabric, or even upcycled materials like plastic bottles. Decorate them with bright colours and patterns, add eyes and scales, and hang them somewhere breezy to watch them dance in the wind.

It’s a lovely way to introduce children to another culture, reflect on family traditions, or simply celebrate the wonder of childhood and the importance of growth, hope, and courage.

A Celebration for Everyone

At its heart, Children’s Day is a celebration of love, family, and potential. Whether you're flying carp streamers from your balcony, crafting koinobori with your kids, or simply taking time to reflect on the strength and beauty of childhood, Kodomo no Hi invites us all to wish the best for the next generation.

-> If you're interested in having your own carp streamers, we have a lovely kit with (nearly) everything you need to make your own Koinobori! (currently sold out)

Image sourced from https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/ev015/index.html