TANABATA
Tanabata (七夕) — also known as the Star Festival, is a Japanese celebration that takes place on July 7. It is based on an ancient Chinese legend about two lovers — Orihime (the weaver star, Vega) and Hikoboshi (the cowherd star, Altair), who are allowed to meet only once a year — on the night of Tanabata, if the Milky Way does not separate them.
Main Elements of Tanabata:
The Legend
Orihime was the daughter of a celestial king and wove beautiful fabrics along the banks of the Heavenly River (the Milky Way). She met and fell in love with the cowherd Hikoboshi. After their marriage, they neglected their duties, so Orihime’s father separated them, allowing them to meet only once a year — from the night of July 6 to the morning of July 7.
Tanzaku (短冊)
The main symbol of the festival is colorful paper strips, on which people write wishes, poems, or dreams, then hang them on bamboo branches. Bamboo is considered a plant that connects the heavens and the earth.
Decorations
The branches are decorated not only with tanzaku but also with paper figures — such as cranes, nets, kimono, and other origami, each symbolizing something (health, success, love, knowledge).
Celebrations
In cities like Sendai and Hiratsuka, vibrant festivals are held with parades, fireworks, dances, and many decorations. Streets are adorned with paper streamers and lanterns.