These are called "koi noborui." They are giant windsocks in the shape of Koi and very colorful. Some are up to 8m long. They are flown in honor of Kodomo-no-hi, or Children's Day. It used to be known as "Boy's Day" (similar to the "Girl's Day" in March), but in 1954 the holiday became known as "Children's Day." May 5th (the 5th day of the 5th month) is when the festival is celebrated. On that day people are to reflect on the healthy growth of all children. According to a Chinese legend, the carp swam upstream to turn into a "strong and healthy" dragon. The koi noborui represent carp swimming upstream. The parents hope that their sons will endure obstacles as they grow throughout their life, and become strong and confident. The number of carps on the pole are supposed to symbolize how many sons a family has. You can see these koi windsocks flown all over in public places and private homes. They are displayed from April to early May. On Sunday, we went with The Adams' to see the biggest display of the koi over the river. There were so many! The river was near Toguchi Beach, so when we were done there, we headed over to the beach to walk around. Here are some pics!
I caught this guys Skiing:
Mr. Craig was nice enough to buy the kids their own koi noborui:
The girls with their koi:
And again:
Mommy had to hold the koi for Olivia, she kept trying to poke my eye out:
Over at Toguchi Beach, going down the slide again, Maddi in the background:
"Weeeee:"
Looking out from the cave-like area:
Under one of them:
It is so pretty here:
Looking down from one of the trails, I was calling her name, she was looking for me:
Found me! Waving:
View of the swimming area:
Michaela and Olivia:
No comments:
Post a Comment