Tanabata (七夕)

▣ What is Tanabata?

Tanabata is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on July 7 (or in some regions in August), based on the legend of the annual meeting between the stars Orihime and Hikoboshi, separated by the Milky Way. It is also known as “the festival of wishes.”

▣ What is the legend behind Tanabata?

The legend tells of Orihime (Vega), a celestial weaver, and Hikoboshi (Altair), a star herder, who fell in love and neglected their work. As punishment, they were separated by the Milky Way and allowed to meet only once a year, on the night of Tanabata.

▣ How is Tanabata celebrated in Japan?

People write wishes on colorful paper strips called tanzaku and hang them on bamboo branches, often decorated with origami and lanterns. Some cities organize parades, illuminations, and spectacular festivals like the one in Sendai.

▣ What symbols and colors characterize Tanabata?

Each decoration has meaning: tanzaku symbolize wishes, orizuru (cranes) represent longevity, and ribbons evoke Orihime’s threads. The dominant colors are blue, red, green, white, and yellow, each linked to a natural element.

▣ Fun Facts

• In some areas, it’s believed that writing a wish with beautiful calligraphy increases the chances of it coming true.

• Tanabata decorations are often burned or set afloat on a river the day after the festival, as a purification ritual.