STAR FESITVAL

I choose the Star Festival because it looked beautiful and interesting

Practices:
People leave lanterns and float them on the river, or float bamboo leaves on the river

Products:
Streamers are often hung on trees or bamboo branches to symbolize the weaving of threads

Perspective:
This reflects Japanese culture as lively and traditional

Background:
Tanabata began with the tale of Kikkoden. There was a weaver princess named Orihime and a cow herder prince name Hikoboshi. While they were together, they were playing all the time and forgot about their jobs. The king was furious and sperated them between the Amanogawa River. The king only let them meet once a year on July 7th.

Tanabata is similar to July 4th because of the fireworks and festive displays

I think that the Star Festival is fascinating. I like the idea of writing your wishes on paper and hanging them on bamboo leaves.

せっく: seasonal turning point
ひこぼし:Altair
おりひめ: Vega
ゆかた: summer kimono
ささ: bamboo leaves
たんざく: small pieces of paper

QUIZ

• What is the tale that started the festival?
• What are the streamers in which you write your wishes called?
• When is Tanabata?
• Where are the streamers hung from?
• How come Orihime and Hikoboshi weren't allowed to meet?