How would you feel if you couldn’t see your partner for an entire year and were only able to see them once, one night a year? (Yes, I know some might say it would be a dream come true, but for most, it wouldn’t be). This is the touching story that gives rise to Tanabata, one of Japan’s most charming and significant festivals. Celebrated on July 7th, this festival has its roots in an ancient Chinese legend and has evolved over the centuries to become a unique and colorful celebration in Japan. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Tanabata, its arrival in Japan, the associated traditions, and ways visitors can participate in the festivities.
- Chinese Origins of Tanabata
- The Arrival of Tanabata in Japan
- The Story of Orihime and Hikoboshi
- The History and Traditions of Tanabata in Japan
- Tanabata Celebrations and Activities
- The Ritual of Tanzaku and Their Final Destination
- The Cultural Significance of Bamboo and Wishes
- Participating in Tanabata as a Visitor
- Resume
Chinese Origins of Tanabata
The Arrival of Tanabata in Japan
Tanabata was introduced to Japan from China during the Nara period (710-794 AD). The first recorded celebration of Tanabata in Japan took place in 755 at the Imperial Palace. As it was adopted by Japanese culture, the festival combined with local Obon traditions and other seasonal festivities, creating a unique celebration that has endured to this day. Over time, Tanabata has become a vibrant and joyful festival, with each region of Japan adding its own special touch to the celebration.
Illustration by Taiso Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) depicting the meeting between Orihime and Hikoboshi. Part of the collection “100 aspects of the moon”
The Story of Orihime and Hikoboshi
In Japan, Tanabata celebrates the annual meeting of Orihime (the Weaver) and Hikoboshi (the Cowherd), the Japanese counterparts of Zhinu and Niulang. Orihime, the daughter of the Sky King Tentei, was a talented weaver who worked by the banks of the Amanogawa (the Milky Way). Her cloth was of unparalleled beauty, and her father adored her for her skill and diligence. However, Orihime was sad because, due to her hard work, she had no time to find love.
Tentei, concerned for his daughter’s sadness, arranged for her to meet Hikoboshi, a young cattle herder who lived on the other side of the Amanogawa. When Orihime and Hikoboshi met, they fell in love instantly and married quickly. However, their happiness had unexpected consequences. In their marital bliss, Orihime stopped weaving, and Hikoboshi neglected his herd, which angered Tentei.
As punishment for their negligence, Tentei separated the lovers, forbidding them from seeing each other and placing them on opposite sides of the Milky Way. Orihime was heartbroken and begged her father to let her see her beloved. Moved by her tears, Tentei allowed Orihime and Hikoboshi to meet once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month.
The legend says that if it rains on Tanabata, the Milky Way overflows, and the lovers cannot meet, causing magpies to fly to the sky and form a bridge with their wings so Orihime and Hikoboshi can cross and reunite.
The History and Traditions of Tanabata in Japan
One of the most prominent traditions of Tanabata is the writing of wishes on colorful strips of paper called “tanzaku.” These wishes are often written with careful calligraphy and range from personal aspirations to good wishes for friends and family. The tanzaku are hung on bamboo branches, which are often placed in gardens, courtyards, or streets during the festival. The bamboo branches adorned with tanzaku and other paper ornaments create a magical and festive atmosphere, symbolizing the hopes and dreams of the participants.
Tanabata Celebrations and Activities
Tanabata celebrations vary in each region of Japan, but some of the most famous take place in Sendai, Hiratsuka, and Tokyo. In Sendai, the Tanabata Matsuri is one of the largest and most famous, attracting millions of visitors with its impressive decorations and parades. The streets are filled with large paper ornaments, including enormous tanzaku, paper cranes, and other elaborate designs. Visitors can enjoy musical and dance performances, as well as food stalls offering traditional Japanese delicacies.
In Hiratsuka, near Tokyo, the Tanabata Matsuri is also known for its colorful decorations and vibrant street celebrations. The streets are filled with people enjoying parades, dances, and fireworks. In Tokyo, Asagaya and Shonan Hiratsuka are popular places to experience the spirit of Tanabata, with parades and special events attracting locals and tourists alike.
The Ritual of Tanzaku and Their Final Destination
One of the most frequently asked questions about Tanabata is what happens to the tanzaku after the festival. Traditionally, the bamboo branches with the wishes are placed in rivers or burned in special ceremonies. This ritual symbolizes sending the wishes to the heavens so they can be heard by Orihime and Hikoboshi. In some areas, the branches are left to float on the water, carrying the participants’ wishes toward the meeting of the star-crossed lovers.
The Cultural Significance of Bamboo and Wishes
Bamboo holds special significance in Japanese culture, as it is considered a symbol of strength and flexibility. Its ability to grow quickly and in diverse conditions makes it a symbol of resilience. In the context of Tanabata, hanging wishes on bamboo represents the belief that these wishes will be carried to the heavens and fulfilled. This practice reflects the deep connection of Japanese culture with nature and its ability to find beauty and meaning in everyday life.
Common Wishes on Tanzaku
The wishes written on tanzaku vary widely, but some common themes include:
- Academic and Professional Success: Many students write wishes to pass exams or gain admission to prestigious universities.
- Health and Well-being: People often wish for good health for themselves and their loved ones.
- Love and Relationships: It is common to see wishes related to finding true love or strengthening existing relationships.
- Prosperity and Happiness: Wishes for financial success and general happiness are also popular.
Participating in Tanabata as a Visitor
If you are visiting Japan during Tanabata, there are many ways to participate in the festivities. You can write your own wish on a tanzaku and hang it on a bamboo branch in any of the public areas where Tanabata events are held. Participating in parades, enjoying street food, and admiring the colorful decorations are also wonderful ways to immerse yourself in the experience.
Some recommended places to enjoy Tanabata include:
- Sendai Tanabata Matsuri: Known for its elaborate decorations and large crowds, it is one of the most impressive festivals in Japan.
- Hiratsuka Tanabata Matsuri: Near Tokyo, this festival is famous for its colorful decorations and lively street celebrations.
- Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri in Tokyo: A smaller but equally charming festival, ideal for enjoying a festive atmosphere in the capital.
- Kappabashi Street in Tokyo: Why? because is only 5 min from our hostel!
Resume
Tanabata is a festival that celebrates love, hope, and dreams through colorful and emotional traditions. Its history, rooted in an ancient Chinese legend, has been adopted and transformed by Japanese culture, creating a unique and enchanting celebration. For visitors in Japan, Tanabata offers a special opportunity to experience Japanese culture in a deeply meaningful and festive way. No matter where you find yourself in Japan during this time, the spirit of Tanabata will invite you to dream, wish, and celebrate under the stars.
