Why do people in Japan make wishes on stars in July? The romantic legend and ways to enjoy Tanabata

In July, you will start to see bamboo branches decorated with colorful strips of paper at train stations, shopping malls, and other places across Japan. This is part of the preparations for Tanabata, a traditional Japanese event held every year on July 7, or in some regions, in August. From an international perspective, the sudden appearance of bamboo trees inside modern buildings and department stores may seem like a very unique and mysterious sight. In this article, we will introduce the story behind Tanabata, a beautiful symbol of summer in Japan, as well as fun ways for international visitors to take part.

What are the origins of Tanabata?

Tanabata is based on the legend of two stars shining in the night sky: Orihime and Hikoboshi. In fact, the story of Japan’s Tanabata originally comes from an ancient Chinese legend. It is a very romantic story about two lovers who were separated by the Milky Way, with one on the western side and the other on the eastern side. They are allowed by the gods to meet only once a year, on the night of July 7.

Write Your Wish on a Tanzaku (Paper Strips). 

One of the most unique and exciting Tanabata customs is writing a wish on a long, narrow strip of colored paper called a tanzaku, then tying it to a bamboo branch. In modern Japan, places such as supermarkets and train stations often set up areas where anyone can write a tanzaku for free. It is completely fine to write your wish in English or in your native language! Sending a wish to the stars in your own language while abroad will surely become a special memory of your stay in Japan. This video introduces Japanese Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, with English explanations and beautiful decorations:

Food Eaten on Tanabata: Somen

In Japan, there is a custom of eating somen on Tanabata. Somen are very thin white noodles. The thin white noodles are said to represent the threads woven by Orihime (The Weaver Princess), or the Milky Way itself. Somen are also perfect as a cold food to help you get through Japan’s hot and humid summer, so be sure to try buying some at a supermarket.

Three Recommended Major Tanabata Festivals in Japan

Large-scale Tanabata festivals are held in various parts of Japan. Some regions hold their festivals in August according to the old lunar calendar, making them perfect destinations for a summer holiday outing.

•  Sendai Tanabata Festival (Miyagi Prefecture)

Features:

Held every year from August 6 to August 8, this is the most famous Tanabata festival in Japan.

Recommended points:

Luxurious, giant decorations made from traditional Japanese washi paper fill the shopping arcade. You will surely be overwhelmed by the impressive scale of Japan’s traditional washi art.

Official website:

https://www.sendaitanabata.com/

•  Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Features:

This is one of the largest Tanabata festivals in the Tokyo area, also known as the Kanto region, and is held in early July.

Recommended points:

The decorations are known for being extremely colorful and modern. At night, they are beautifully illuminated, and visitors can enjoy authentic Japanese street food from the many food stalls lined up throughout the festival area.

Official website:

https://www.tanabata-hiratsuka.com/

• Orimono Kanshasai Ichinomiya Tanabata Festival, Aichi Prefecture

Features:

This festival is held in late July in Ichinomiya City, a city famous for its textile production.

Recommended points:

Not only is the city covered in decorations, but visitors can also enjoy experiences such as bon odori, a classic Japanese summer dance.

Official website: 

https://www.138ss.com/tanabata/

Manners and Important Tips for Enjoying the Festival Safely

Japanese summer festivals are very exciting, but there are some rules to keep in mind in crowded places. To enjoy the festival safely and comfortably, please be careful of the following points.

• Do Not Touch or Pull the Tanabata Decorations

The giant decorations displayed in shopping arcades are handmade by craftspeople and local residents using delicate washi paper. They tear very easily, so please enjoy them with your eyes and avoid touching them.

• Do Not Litter

Trash from food bought at stalls should be thrown away in the trash bins at the shop where you bought it, or in designated trash areas at the festival venue. If you cannot find a trash bin, it is Japanese etiquette to take your trash back to your hotel or home.

• Take Proper Precautions Against Heatstroke

Japanese summers are extremely humid and can become dangerously hot. Drink water frequently before you feel thirsty, and take care of your health by using items such as a portable fan or a hat.

• Be Careful Not to Walk While Using Your Phone or Stop Suddenly

Famous festival venues can become extremely crowded. If you suddenly stop in the middle of the path to take photos of the beautiful decorations, you may bump into people behind you and create a dangerous situation. Please pay attention to your surroundings.

Conclusion

Tanabata, with its romantic star legend and the custom of people sharing their wishes, is an event that reflects the delicate sensitivity of Japanese culture. This July, try adding your own wish to a bamboo decoration in town and experience one of Japan’s beautiful summer traditions!