Carp streamers are displayed on May 5th, an ancient Japanese festival called Boys’ Festival.
Three wishes are embedded during the creation of each carp streamer.
First is the hope that the child grows up safe and strong and the happiness of his or her family.
Second, Carp Streamers swim towards the wind in the hopes
that both child and family have strength to overcome adversity.
Third is a wish for world peace as these streamers swim under the blue skies of May.
We at WATANABE KOINOBORI will continue to make carp streamers for children,
making full use of traditional techniques passed down through the generation from our ancestors.
Carp streamers are flown to celebrate the birth of a children. These streamers are created in the shape of a carp. This is in the hope that these children grow to embody the same strength and resilience of the carp . These ”nobori” are displayed during Japanese traditional events. Its history began in the Edo period.
Legend has it that once upon a time a carp was swimming happily in the river. The carp swiftly leapt upstream against the raging current of a waterfall. Legend also tells that this carp was transformed into a mighty dragon. This legend is called “Toryumon”, The carp was passed down from generation to generation as a symbol of strength, resilience and success in life. This is why streamers are made to resemble the carp.
Continuing since the Edo period, streamers depicting the heroes of Japan have been instilled with hopes that children won’t fall ill much like these venerated warriors. Luck, success, strength and resilience are all a part of the wish we hope for our children. These wishes are incorporated in every streamer made.
