What is Tanabata? Why do we write our wishes on paper strips?

Have you ever seen colorful paper hanging from bamboo in Japan in July?
it is"TanabataThis is a scene from a traditional Japanese festival called "Kyoto Festival."
But why do we write our wishes on paper and hang them on bamboo?
Today, I'd like to explain the charm and meaning of Tanabata in an easy-to-understand way.

【【What is Tanabata?】
Tanabata isJuly 7At the event held inStar Festival" is also called.
The origin of this event lies in Chinese legend.
Orihime (Weaving Princess) and Hikoboshi (Hikoboshi) are lovers who are separated by the Milky Way.
but,They can only meet once a year on July 7th.That's the story.
This romantic story spread to Japan and became a seasonal event.

Why write down your wishes?
In ancient Japan, TanabataA day to pray for improvement in handicrafts and studiesIt was said that.
People prayed for improvement in skills, such as "I hope I can write better" or "I hope I can weave better."
As a remnant of that time,Wishlists are written on colorful strips of paper called "tanzaku" and hung on bamboo.This custom still remains.
Nowadays, it's okay to wish for anything you want!
"I want to be healthy"
"I want to pass the test."
The messages are written freely, such as "I hope I find a lover."

How do you celebrate?
TohokuSendai Cityand KanagawaHiratsuka CityA huge Tanabata festival is held there, attracting many people!
Other than that,
◎At schools and daycare centers, children write tanzaku (strips of paper) and hang them on bamboo.
◎You can also see Tanabata decorations at train stations, shopping malls, local events, and more.

[Enjoy it even while traveling!]
Foreigners and tourists in Japan can easily experience Tanabata.
The experience of "sending your wishes to the heavens" is sure to be an unforgettable memory.
There are often tanzaku corners set up in tourist spots and in front of train stations, so why not try writing your wishes in English or Japanese and hanging them up?

Tanabata isNot just a legendary festival, but a day to make wishes.
No matter what your wish is, writing it down with all your heart can make your future a little brighter.
This July, why not write your wishes on a piece of paper and enjoy the Japanese summer scenery?