Kodomo no Hi

When did the Kodomo no Hi start?

About Kodomo no Hi Holiday

Kodomo no Hi is a Japanese holiday held annually on May 5th to celebrate the growth and happiness of the country's children. This is an important day for the entire country. It was originally established in 1948 as Boys’ Day before being changed in 1948 to a celebration of all children. On this day, parents, friends, and relatives come together to celebrate. They cook large meals featuring favorite foods of the children and give out presents, including traditional Japanese items such as taiko drums. Colourful carp-shaped streamers called koi nobori are hung up, and their black-red markings are said to bring good luck. At many events, children wear traditional Japanese robes known as kimonos. Another popular activity is kite flying. Persons of all ages join in the festivities of this special day and it remains popular to this day. Kodomo no Hi is a national holiday in Japan and is celebrated by all parts of society in an annual festival atmosphere. Discover more details and learn about the upcoming festivities associated with National children's/kids day.

Kodomo no Hi — A Historical Children’s Day Holiday

Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) is an annual holiday celebrated in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. It is a day dedicated to celebrating the joys of childhood and honoring the growth and potential of all children. This special holiday is marked by activities such as flying kites, wearing colorful kimonos, and gathering with family. This article will provide an overview of the history, origins, and celebrations that make Kodomo no Hi such a beloved holiday.

Origins of Kodomo no Hi

The roots of Kodomo no Hi, traditionally known as Tango no Sekku, can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan. During this period, a variety of festivals and rituals were created in order to bring luck and prosperity to families. One of these celebrations was called Boys’ Day (later renamed Kodomo no Hi), which was a season for rejoicing over the development of young children, including boys. The name Tango no Sekku was inspired by the Chinese calendar as it represented the fifth day of the fifth month, a day traditionally reserved for honoring children.

Celebrations in Japan

In Japan, Kodomo no Hi is celebrated on May 5th. This day is considered a national holiday in Japan, giving parents and children a chance to escape their routines and embrace the joy of carefree, loving family time.

Kodomo no Hi is celebrated with a variety of activities. Families typically gather together and fly huge kites, an activity that dates back to ancient Japan. The vibrant hues of these traditional kites symbolize growth and courage. In addition, families also exchange gifts such as traditional toys and dolls, display and fly various carp flags, make fancy cakes, and spend time outdoors.

Celebrations in South Korea

In South Korea, Kodomo no Hi is traditionally celebrated on May 5th and referred to as Children’s Day, or Eoljjang-sacha. However, it is now celebrated on May 8th to commemorate the establishment of the Children’s Day Promotion Committee, which was created in the early 20th century to promote children’s rights.

The celebrations in South Korea involve many of the same activities as in Japan, with a few special additions. South Korean families celebrate this day by eating traditional dishes such as tteokguk, a rice cake soup, and wearing folk costumes. In addition, children’s performances such as singing and dancing are often put on in public spaces.

Celebrations in Taiwan

In Taiwan, Kodomo no Hi is known as Children’s Day and is celebrated on the 4th of April, one week before its Japanese and South Korean counterparts. This change of dates is due to the island country’s location in the Southern Hemisphere, where the fifth day of the fifth month would be in Autumn rather than in Spring.

The celebration of Children’s Day in Taiwan largely follows the same pattern as it does in Japan and South Korea. Families typically fly kites, usually competing to see who can create the highest-flying, most impressive-looking kite. Then, children often make fancy cakes and houses from their favorite candies, while adults exchange gifts with the children in their lives. Choirs also often perform in public squares and parks, singing songs that celebrate the joy of childhood.

Conclusion

The Kodomo no Hi holiday is an important annual event celebrated in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. It is a special day dedicated to honoring the growth and potential of all children, and bringing happiness and luck to families. Each of these countries has its own unique way of celebrating the day, ranging from flying colorful kites to eating traditional dishes to gathering with family and friends. What is consistent, however, across the different celebrations is the joyous recognition of childhood and the importance of parents and adults in providing love and guidance to young lives.

How to Say "Kodomo no Hi" In Different Languages?