Happy Children’s Day!   

In preparation for Children’s Day in Japan, on 5 May, a joyful occasion that honours the happiness and growth of children, members of the Japanese Culture Society, students learning Japanese, and other eager volunteers have been participating in an ongoing project. They have been working together over several weeks to folding origami kabuto (samurai battle helmets). Hundreds of individual origami have been joined together to create koinobori, (colourful carp streamers) that are a familiar sight across Japan during Children’s Day.

These vibrant carp streamers are hung outside homes and schools to symbolise strength, courage, and good fortune for children as they grow. Carp are admired for strength and determination in Japanese culture, while the origami helmets represent bravery and protection. Traditional treats such as kashiwa mochi (sweet rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves) and chimaki (sticky rice dumplings in bamboo leaves) are also enjoyed during this time. 

Thank you to all the wonderful students who helped create this beautiful artwork. We hope it brings happiness to your day! Kodomo no hi omedetou! (Happy Children’s Day!)

– Natasha Collins 
Assistant Head of Department – Languages

Click on gallery to view full images