Japan: Koinobori, When the Koi Fly for Children's Future
- Olivier
- 2 days ago
- 9 min read
May 5th in Japan is a day of vibrant colors, deep symbolism, and heartfelt wishes for the future. Known as Kodomo no Hi, or Children’s Day, this national holiday is the final celebration of Golden Week, marked by the iconic koinobori windsocks that flutter across the country, bringing the spirit of the season to life each spring.
Koinobori Windsocks, Takatsuki City © O. Robert
While today Kodomo no Hi honors all children, its roots run deep in history, tradition, and the enduring spirit of resilience symbolized by the koi fish and the famous koi-shaped windsocks. I have always been drawn to the visual richness of Kodomo no Hi. The koinobori, with their vibrant colors and dynamic shapes, offer a striking contrast against the backdrop of Japan’s urban and natural landscapes.
Kodomo no Hi is a day to respect children’s individuality, celebrate their joy, and express gratitude to mothers for their role in raising them. The holiday emphasizes the value of children in society and encourages adults to nurture and protect the next generation. It is a reminder to families to slow down, reconnect, and appreciate the simple yet profound moments of childhood.
But first, what do these words mean exactly?
The words Kodomo no Hi (こどもの日) are written in Japanese as 子供 (kodomo), meaning "children", and の日 (no hi), meaning "day of". Together, Kodomo no Hi literally translates to "Children’s Day".
The word koinobori (鯉のぼり) is written in Japanese as 鯉 (koi), meaning "carp", and のぼり (nobori), meaning "flag" or "banner". Together, koinobori literally translates to "carp banner".
Let’s take a closer look at what this special day entails, its origins, how it is celebrated across the country and of course the meaning of the koi fish, a symbol I am particularly fond of.
Koinobori Windsocks © O. Robert
The Origins of Kodomo no Hi
Kodomo no Hi traces its origins to an ancient Chinese festival called Tango no Sekku, one of the five seasonal festivals observed at the imperial court. In China, the fifth day of the fifth month was considered a time for purification and warding off evil spirits.
When this tradition reached Japan during the Nara period (710-794), it gradually evolved into a celebration of boys, known as Boys’ Day or Tango no Sekku. This day was dedicated to wishing for the health, strength, and success of male children, reflecting the samurai values of bravery and perseverance.
For centuries, families celebrated Boys’ Day by displaying samurai armor, helmets (called kabuto), and dolls of Kintarō, a legendary child known for his superhuman strength. The holiday was a counterpart to Hinamatsuri, or Girls’ Day, celebrated on March 3rd. However, in 1948, the Japanese government officially renamed Tango no Sekku as Kodomo no Hi, expanding its focus to celebrate all children, both boys and girls. This change reflected a broader societal shift toward recognizing the importance of every child’s happiness and well-being.
The date, May 5th, is often referred to as the “double fifth” due to its numerical significance in the lunar calendar. This day is believed to bring good fortune and is an opportunity to wish for the healthy growth and future success of children. While the holiday’s name and scope have changed over time, its core message remains the same: a celebration of hope, strength, and the promise of tomorrow.
The Symbolism of the Koi Fish
At the heart of Kodomo no Hi is the koi fish, a creature revered in both Chinese and Japanese culture for its strength and determination. The koi’s symbolism is deeply tied to a Chinese legend that tells the story of a carp swimming upstream against a powerful current.
According to the legend, if the carp successfully reaches the top of a waterfall known as the Dragon Gate, it transforms into a dragon and ascends to heaven. This tale resonates with the values of perseverance, courage, and the ability to overcome adversity. These are qualities that parents wish to cultivate in their children.
In Japan, the koi is also associated with the samurai spirit. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the koi became a symbol of resilience and ambition, qualities that were highly valued in a society where warriors and scholars alike sought to rise above challenges. The koi’s ability to thrive in both still and flowing waters further reinforced its connection to adaptability and endurance.
The Koi in Japanese Art and Culture
The koi fish holds a special place in Japanese art, literature, and folklore. Its image appears in paintings, prints, and even tattoos, often as a symbol of perseverance and transformation. In Japanese gardens, koi ponds are a common feature, with the fish’s vibrant colors and graceful movements adding a sense of tranquility and beauty to the space.
In photography, the koi offers a wealth of creative possibilities. The interplay of light and water, the fish’s vivid scales, and their dynamic movements make them a compelling subject for both color and black and white photography. For a minimalist photographer, the koi can be captured in a way that emphasizes its form and the textures of its environment, creating images that are both visually striking and rich in symbolism.
The infinite richness of koi varieties offers unique compositions, whether in color or monochrome. Over the years, koi have become one of my most captivating photographic subjects. Their elegant silhouettes standing out against the deep black of a pond, or the reflections of trees on the water’s surface, provide endless creative inspiration, yielding stunning results. The photographs often blur the line with traditional paintings.
The Koinobori: Carp Windsocks of Hope
The most recognizable symbol of Kodomo no Hi is the koinobori, the carp-shaped windsock that families hang outside their homes. These colorful streamers, which resemble koi swimming in the wind, are a visual representation of the holiday’s aspirations for children. Traditionally, the koinobori set includes:
A black carp called Magoi, representing the father.
A red or pink carp called Higoi, representing the mother.
Blue, green, or orange carps, each representing a child in the family, with additional carps added for each subsequent children.
The sight of koinobori fluttering in the breeze is a common and beloved image across Japan in early May. In some regions, entire communities come together to hang hundreds or even thousands of koinobori along rivers or in public spaces, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Koinobori Windsocks © O. Robert
Where to Enjoy Koinobori
Here are some of the most famous locations in Japan known for their spectacular koinobori. These places are renowned for their large-scale, visually stunning installations, often attracting visitors from across the country:
1. Tokyo Tower (Tokyo)
Display Period: Late April to early May
Details: Hundreds of koinobori are hung around Tokyo Tower, creating a vibrant and iconic backdrop against the city’s skyline.
2. Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture
Display Period: May 3rd to May 5th
Details: Over 800 koinobori are strung across the Kanna River, creating a breathtaking scene as the carp appear to swim through the air. The event also includes outdoor activities like kayaking and rafting.
Join us for a Photo Tour where you’ll discover timeless beauty, immerse yourself in local culture, and uncover hidden photographic gems. We explore Japan’s contrasts, tradition and modernity, serenity and energy, nature and urban pulse… If these dualities inspire you, see the programme here.
3. Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture
Display Period: Late April to May 5th
Details: More than 1.000 koinobori float above the Akuta River, offering one of the most spectacular gatherings of carp windsocks in Japan. The display is particularly striking due to its scale and the way the koinobori seem to dance in the wind. To this day, it is the most significant koinobori I have seen and photographed in Japan.
4. Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture
Display Period: March 18th to May 6th
Details: This display is a symbol of hope and recovery for the region, which was heavily affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The number of koinobori represents the height of Tokyo Tower, and the event includes a giant pacific saury (Sanma) fish as part of the decorations.
5. Nagareyama City, Chiba Prefecture
Display Period: Late April to early May
Details: Known for its Nagareyama Koinobori Festival, this city transforms its streets and rivers into a sea of colorful carp windsocks. The festival is one of the largest in the Kanto region.
Koinobori Windsocks © O. Robert
6. Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Display Period: Late April to May 5th
Details: The Tsuchiura Koinobori Festival features thousands of koinobori along the Sakuragawa River. The city is famous for its traditional craftsmanship, and the koinobori here often reflect local artistic styles.
7. Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Display Period: Late April to May 5th
Details: Kurume hosts a large koinobori display along the Chikugo River, with hundreds of carp windsocks creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
More than just being decorative, the koinobori carry a profound message. As the windsocks sway in the wind, they appear to swim through the sky, symbolizing the koi’s journey upstream. This imagery serves as a reminder to children that, like the koi, they too can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Koinobori Windsocks © O. Robert
How Kodomo no Hi is Celebrated in Japan
While the customs may vary slightly from region to region, the holiday is marked by a number of time-honored practices that bring families and communities together.
1. Displaying Koinobori and Kabuto
Families begin preparations for Kodomo no Hi in late April, hanging koinobori outside their homes. The windsocks are typically raised on poles or from balconies, where they can catch the wind and “swim” through the air. In addition to koinobori, many households display kabuto, the traditional samurai helmets (as mentioned above).
These helmets, often made of paper or plastic, are placed on shelves or tables as a symbol of protection and strength for the children. Schools and kindergartens also participate in the celebrations, with children creating their own koinobori or kabuto in art classes.
2. Special Foods
No Japanese holiday is complete without its own culinary traditions, and Kodomo no Hi is no exception. Two foods are particularly associated with this day:
Kashiwa mochi: A sticky rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste and wrapped in an oak leaf. The oak leaf is symbolic of strength and resilience, as oak trees do not shed their leaves until new ones have grown, representing the continuity of family lineage.
Chimaki: A sweet rice dumpling wrapped in iris or bamboo leaves and steamed. Chimaki is also eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival in China, reflecting the shared cultural roots of the holiday.
Koinobori Windsock © O. Robert
3. Bathing in Iris-Infused Water
Another tradition tied to Kodomo no Hi is the use of shobu, or Japanese iris. The iris is believed to have medicinal properties and the power to ward off evil spirits. On May 5th, some families take a bath infused with iris leaves or roots, or place iris leaves in their pillows. This practice is rooted in the belief that the iris can protect children from illness and misfortune.
4. Family Outings and Festivals
Kodomo no Hi is a day for families to spend quality time together. Many parents take their children to parks, zoos, or amusement parks, where they can enjoy games, rides, and picnics. Local communities often organize festivals featuring traditional music, dance performances, and craft workshops. These events provide an opportunity for children to learn about their cultural heritage while having fun.
The Final Word
For families, this special day is an opportunity to come together, reflect on the joys of childhood, and pass down traditions to the next generation. For photographers, it is a chance to capture the beauty and meaning of a day that is as rich in symbolism as it is in color. In black and white, the koinobori take on a new dimension. Stripped of color, the focus shifts to the interplay of light and shadow, and the patterns of the windsocks.
The koinobori and the art of photography share a common thread: the pursuit of capturing something fleeting yet profound. Just as the carp windsocks symbolize the aspirations of children, perseverance, and the ability to rise above challenges, photography, too, is an act of achievement.
For artists in general, the koi, whether swimming in a pond or soaring as a windsock, becomes a subject that demands patience, vision, and technical skill to immortalize its beauty. Each photograph of a koi, with its elegant lines and vibrant or monochrome tones, is a testament to the artist’s ability to see beyond the surface, to transform a moment into something timeless.
In this way, Kodomo no Hi is not only a celebration of children’s potential but also a reminder of the creative journey, where every shot is a step toward mastery and fulfillment.
Join us for a Photo Tour where you’ll discover timeless beauty, immerse yourself in local culture, and uncover hidden photographic gems. We explore Japan’s contrasts, tradition and modernity, serenity and energy, nature and urban pulse… If these dualities inspire you, see the programme here.