Culture moment:: Fish Flags

Alex and Becca standing on a bridge, notice the fish flags in the background over the river.

In Japan, the carp (or Koi as it is known is Japanese) is a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity. It is the symbol of strength and determination to overcome obstacles and attain high goals. Thus, the fish flag is symbolic in a family and on Children’s Day in Japan, these flags are flown in all homes. Black fish flags are for fathers, orange/red for mothers, blue/white for boys and red/pink for girls. If possible, the flags are flown over water to represent the strength children (but especially boys) will have as they 'swim upstream' against the challenges of life.

Until recently, Tango no Sekku was known as Boys' Day while Girls' Day (Hunamatsuri) was celebrated on March 3. In 1948, the government decreed this day to be a national holiday to celebrate the happiness of all children and to express gratitude toward mothers. It was renamed Kodomo no Hi. During this period, Japanese companies are closed for a week and people use this occasion to travel either in Japan or overseas.

We've loved seeing these flags decorating most of the city over the past month. They are bright and cheerful. This coming weekend we are planning on going to the Children's Day festival. We're looking forward to it :)