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Children’s Day

Japanese holiday
Also known as: Boy’s Festival, Kodomo no Hi, Tango no Sekku

Quick Summary

In Japan, Children's Day, celebrated on May 5, is part of the Golden Week holiday period. This day is dedicated to promoting children's health and happiness. Families often display carp streamers (koinobori) and samurai dolls, symbolizing strength and success. Special iris baths (syobuyu) are taken to ward off evil, and traditional foods like kashiwa mochi are eaten. Historically, May 5 was known as Boys' Festival, while a separate Girls' Day is observed on March 3. Japan also celebrates Shichi-go-san on November 15, honoring children aged three, five, and seven at Shinto shrines.123

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