How Children's Day is celebrated around the world (2)

Japan 5.5

(Photo/People.cn)

In Japan, May 5 was originally called Tango no sekku (端午の節句), one of the five annual ceremonies held at the imperial court. Until 1948, Children's Day was known as Boys' Day, which celebrated boys and recognizing fathers, as the counterpart to Girls' Day on March 3. In 1948, the name was changed to Children's Day to include both male and female children, as well as recognizing mothers along with fathers and the family quality of unity.

On this day, families raise koinobori, which are carp-shaped windsocks, with a black carp for the father, a red or pink for the mother, and one carp (usually blue, and sometimes additionally green and orange) for each child. Traditionally, when celebrated as Boys' Day, the red koinobori was for the eldest son with blue and additional colors for younger brothers.

Apart from March 3 and May 5, Japan also celebrates Shichi-Go-San ("Seven-Five-Three"), a traditional celebration in Japan for three- and seven-year-old girls and five-year-old boys. The festival is held annually on November 15 to celebrate the growth and well-being of young children. On this day, children wear their best kimono and accompany their parents to the shrine to pray for health and safety.