May 5th is Japanese Children’s Day

In Japan, May 5th is Children’s Day — a special day that celebrates children’s health, happiness, and individuality. It used to be known as “Boys’ Day” and March 3rd was “Girls’ Day,” but in 1948 the name was changed to celebrate both boys and girls. Mothers and fathers are also recognized and celebrated on this day. You’ll see carp-shaped windsocks flying to illustrate the carp swimming upstream to become a dragon and fly to heaven. I love this day because we can bring out our Japanese samurai dolls riding on flying carp and eat mochi filled with red bean ham and wrapped in oak leaves! Let our children, be children; and let’s appreciate our parents and teachers!