Koi Noburi

In the run up to Tango No Sekko (children's day,) traditional koi karp-shaped windsocks can be seen streaming in the breeze. Children's day takes place on May 5th and houses and apartments are decorated with koinoburi to honour sons in the hope that they will grow up healthy and strong.

The carp has become the symbol of tango no sekku or Boys' Day because the Japanese consider it the most spirited of fish-so full of energy and power that it can fight its way up swift-running streams. Because of it's strength and determination to overcome all obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals. Since these are traits desired in boys, families traditionally flew koinobori from their homes to honor their sons.

A set of streamers usually has three or more fish. The large black one (magoi) represents father. According to a Japanese children's song, the red one (higoi) represents the first born son. However, in modern Japan, many prefer to see it as mother. The small ones (usually green and blue) represent the sons in the family. A new streamer is added each time a new baby is born. Unfortunately high winds means most of this one has got wound around the post!

Life is a celebration of awakenings,
of new beginnings, and wonderful
surprises that enlighten the soul.
Cielo