Have you ever wanted to know more about the history of carp streamers and what they mean?
The carp streamers displayed on Children’s Day actually have a deep history and origin hidden within them.
Carp streamers originated from a Chinese legend and have been widely accepted in Japan as a symbol to wish for the healthy growth and success of boys.
However, few people may know the details behind why colorful carp streamers flutter in the wind.
This article details the history of carp streamers, the meaning of each color, and regional differences.
Learn more about carp streamers and feel the charm of carp streamers.
We hope you enjoy it to the end.
Origin and History of Koinobori
Have you ever heard of the term “Koinobori” (carp streamer)? It is something you see in traditional Japanese events, but few people may know the details of its origin and history.
Here is a detailed explanation of the basic definition of koinobori and its true meaning.
From the Legend of the Dragon Gate in Ancient China to Japan
Carp streamers originated in Chinese “Legend of the Dragon’s Gate of Ascension The origin of the carp streamer comes from the Chinese “Legend of the Dragon Gate.
According to this legend, a carp that climbs the rapids of the Yellow River becomes a dragon.
In the upper reaches of the Yellow River in China, there is a difficult place called “Longmen” where rapids continue to flow.
It is very difficult to climb through this dragon gate, and many fish try, but most fail along the way.
However, it is believed that only a carp can climb through the torrent and turn into a dragon.
This legend came from China to Japan as a symbol of success in overcoming difficulties.
In Japan, the image of a carp climbing a waterfall symbolizes strength and success in life, and carp streamers were used to pray for the healthy growth of boys on Tango-no Sekku (Children’s Day).
Development and History of Koinobori in Japan
It is said that carp streamers were introduced to Japan in the Heian period (794-1185), and especially developed greatly in the Edo period (1603-1868).
Initially, carp streamers began in samurai society, where banners depicting family crests were used.
These banners symbolized family honor and warrior bravery.
Spread of Koinobori in the Edo Period
During the Edo period (1603-1867), carp streamers became popular among the general public and became an important symbol for praying for the success and health of boys.
In the mid-Edo period, flags in the shape of carp gradually began to spread.
This came to be displayed in many homes as a symbol of hope for the boy’s growth and success in life.
Especially in the late Edo period (1603-1867), carp streamers began to be displayed in town houses and farmhouses, and became a common sight in urban areas.
The townspeople adopted the custom of drawing carp designs on paper or cloth and letting them flutter in the wind to pray for family prosperity and the health of their children.
The designs and materials used for carp streamers also diversified during this period.
Not only paper carp streamers, but also cloth carp streamers became common, and a variety of colors and patterns were added.
This has made carp streamers more festive and colorful, and has allowed regional characteristics to emerge.
In the Edo landscape, carp streamers could be seen fluttering across the roofs and yards of many houses, and the entire town was decorated with carp streamers, especially on the Boys’ Festival on May 5.
This scene seems to have remained in the memories of many people as a symbol of the prosperity and cultural richness of the Edo period.
Impact of the Olympics and Expo ’70 on Koinobori
The 1964 Tokyo Olympics and the 1970 Osaka World’s Fair provided the perfect opportunity for koinobori to be introduced on the international stage.
Through these large-scale events, carp streamers have spread throughout the world as part of traditional Japanese culture.
At the Tokyo Olympics, carp streamers were displayed at venues and athletes’ villages to promote Japanese culture to visiting foreigners.
Many media outlets have covered carp streamers and their beauty and meaning have been widely introduced, and carp streamers have come to be recognized as one of the symbols of Japan.
The 1970 Osaka World’s Fair also drew a great deal of attention to carp streamers.
Carp streamers were used for displays in the Japan Pavilion and for decorations in the exhibition hall, and their spectacular sight attracted many visitors.
In particular, the large-scale carp streamer display seen throughout the Expo site made a strong impression on visitors and seemed to emphasize the uniqueness and attractiveness of traditional Japanese culture.
Through these events, the design and materials of carp streamers have evolved greatly.
In addition to traditional paper and cloth, new materials such as nylon and polyester were introduced to improve durability and richness of color.
In terms of design, more colorful and contemporary patterns were also incorporated in addition to the traditional koi shapes.
Koinobori have become even more diverse and loved around the world.
Meaning and Symbolism of Koinobori
Koinobori, or carp streamers, are a traditional Japanese event with deep meaning and symbolism.
Let’s take a closer look at its origin and the meaning it symbolizes.
What is the meaning of Koinobori? Success in life and healthy growth
The carp streamer comes from a Chinese legend that a carp climbs up a torrent of water and becomes a dragon.
This legend symbolizes success in overcoming difficulties.
In Japan, carp streamers are displayed on Children’s Day to wish for the healthy growth and success of boys.
The Meaning of Decorating Koinobori on Children’s Day
The custom of decorating carp streamers on Children’s Day has continued since the Edo period.
This is a special day to wish boys growth and happiness.
By decorating carp streamers, we hope that children will overcome difficulties and grow strong.
Colors of carp streamers and their meanings
Each color of the carp streamer has a different meaning.
Each color symbolizes a member of the family and has special meaning.
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Black Makinoi: symbolizes the father, the head of the family, and represents strength and leadership. Red Scarlet Koi: symbolizes a mother and represents gentleness and affection. Blue carp: symbolizes a boy and wishes for his energy and growth. Green Koi: symbolizes girls and wishes for health and happiness. |
Decorating Koi Noboris The order is usually Makigoi (black carp), followed by Hikigoi (red carp), and then Aogi (blue carp) and Midori Koi followed by blue and green carp.
This order symbolizes family togetherness and balance.
Meaning and Role of Blowing Streamers
The blow streamer is a long piece of five-color cloth that is attached to the top of the koinobori.
The five colors are based on the ancient Chinese theory of Yin-Yang and the five elements, each symbolizing the power and protection of nature.
The blowing streamers flutter in the wind, dispelling bad things and protecting the family.
Meaning of arrow wheel
An arrow wheel is a metal windmill that is attached to the top of a blowdown.
By spinning with the wind, it is believed to drive away evil spirits and protect the safety of the home.
This movement makes the entire carp streamer beautiful.
Legends and folk tales about carp streamers
The carp streamer has many ancient legends and folk tales.
Here are a few of them.
Legend of Koi Carp Climbing Waterfalls
The most famous origin of the carp streamer is the Chinese legend of the “Dragon Gate Waterfall Climb.
According to this legend, a carp that climbs the rapids of the Yellow River transforms into a dragon.
This was popularized as a symbol of success in overcoming difficulties.
This legend is said to have been introduced to Japan, and carp streamers came to be used as a symbol to wish for the growth and success of boys.
Japanese folktales related to carp streamers
There are several old tales about carp in Japan.
For example, there is a story of a poor boy who helped a carp to climb a waterfall, and the carp turned into a dragon, bringing wealth and happiness to the boy.
These stories tell us that the koinobori is a symbol of courage and mutual help.
The origin of carp streamers and their scary episodes
Koinobori has not only cheerful stories, but also some scary episodes.
In some areas, it was believed that decorating carp streamers would drive away evil spirits.
For example, a story goes that a family had a series of unfortunate events the year they did not display carp streamers, and since then they have always displayed carp streamers every year.
These episodes indicate that the carp streamers are also talismans that protect the safety of the family.
Types of Koinobori and their characteristics
There are many different types and characteristics of carp streamers.
Let’s take a closer look at how each koinobori is designed and what characteristics it has.
Types of traditional carp streamers
There are several traditional types of carp streamers.
The most common types are “Makigoi” and “Higoi”.
The makoi is black and symbolizes the father, the head of the family, and represents strength and leadership.
The scarlet carp is red and symbolizes the mother, expressing tenderness and love.
Recently, blue and green koi have been added to the list and are often displayed as a representation of children.
The blue carp symbolizes a boy and the green carp a girl.
Modern Koinobori designs and materials
Modern carp streamers are based on traditional designs, but are diversified in materials, colors, and patterns.
Once made of cloth or paper, today durable materials such as nylon and polyester are common.
This makes them more resistant to wind and rain and can be used for a long period of time.
The designs have become more colorful, and some are decorated with characters and unique patterns.
Types of blow torches and arrow carts and their meanings
The carp streamer includes not only the carp but also the blow torch and arrow wheel.
The blow streamer is a long piece of five-color cloth that is attached to the top of the koinobori.
The five colors symbolize the power and protection of nature, based on the ancient Chinese theory of Yin-Yang and the five elements.
The blowing streamers serve to ward off evil spirits by fluttering in the wind.
An arrow wheel is a metal windmill that is attached to the top of the blowing stream.
By spinning with the wind, it is believed to drive away evil spirits and protect the safety of the home.
The spinning arrow wheel also makes the entire carp streamer look more beautiful.
Explaining the meaning of koinobori for children
Koinobori (carp streamers) have a deep meaning of wishing for the growth and happiness of children.
Let us explain its meaning and symbolism in detail so that children can easily understand it.
Why the carp streamer is a symbol for boys’ health and success in life
Koinobori (carp streamers) are displayed to wish boys good health and success in life.
It is based on an ancient Chinese legend.
According to the legend, a carp that climbs up the torrent of the Yellow River is said to turn into a dragon.
This image of a boy overcoming difficulties and succeeding was accepted in Japan as a symbol of a boy’s growth and success.
By decorating carp streamers, we hope that boys will face difficulties and grow strong and healthy.
Koinobori also have the meaning of wishing for the happiness and prosperity of the family.
Relationship between Koinobori and May Dolls
Koinobori (carp streamers) and May dolls are both traditional Japanese decorations essential for Children’s Day.
Let’s take a closer look at their relationship and what each means.
Meaning of May Dolls on Dragon Boat Festival
Tango-no Sekku (Children’s Day) is a traditional Japanese event to wish for the growth and health of boys.
The May dolls displayed on this day are modeled after samurai armor and helmets, symbolizing courage, strength, and health.
May dolls play an important role as a symbol of hope that boys will overcome difficulties and grow up strong.
Statues of Shoki, the god of war, are also sometimes displayed together and are believed to ward off evil spirits.
Historical Background of Koinobori and May Dolls
Koinobori (carp streamers) and Gogatsu Ningyo (May dolls) are both important ornaments for celebrating the Boys’ Boys’ Festival, and are filled with wishes for the boy’s growth and success.
Understanding the historical background and symbolic meaning of each of these events will give you a deeper appreciation of the Dragon Boat Festival.
The carp streamer originates from the Chinese legend of the Dragon Gate, in which a carp climbs up a torrent and becomes a dragon, symbolizing a boy’s success and success in life.
This legend spread to Japan, and by the Edo period (1603-1867), carp streamers were widely popularized and became a symbol to pray for the healthy growth of boys.
On the other hand, May dolls originated in the samurai society of the Warring States period.
The May dolls, modeled after samurai armor and helmets, symbolize the bravery and strength of the warriors of the Warring States period, and are displayed in the hope that the boy will grow up strong and healthy.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), the custom of decorating May dolls spread not only among samurai families but also among the common people, and it was accepted as a way to wish for family prosperity and the growth of boys.
How to set up and decorate carp streamers
Correctly decorating a koi nobori-style streamer can maximize its beauty and meaning.
Let’s take a look at the installation process, points to keep in mind, and how to decorate.
The best time and period to display Koinobori (carp streamers) (from when to when)
When is the best time to display carp streamers? From mid-April to early May from mid-April to the beginning of May.
Specifically, the ideal time to start decorating is after the Spring Equinox and before Children’s Day (May 5).
In some regions, they are displayed from Risshun (early February), but generally they are displayed in April, taking wind and rain into consideration.
After Children’s Day, it should be put away by mid-May.
Installation Procedures and Points to Note for Koinobori
The following steps are required to set up a koi banner.
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As a precaution, it is recommended to avoid koinobori in strong winds or rain and to remove them to prevent damage.
Also, make sure that the installation site is safe and that it will not fall over or fall down.
The Meaning of Decorating Koinobori in a Girl’s Home
Although carp streamers are traditionally used to celebrate the growth of boys, more and more families with girls are also decorating carp streamers these days.
The carp streamer is a symbol of success in overcoming difficulties and is meant to wish for the healthy growth of children, both male and female.
Differences in carp streamers by region
Koinobori carp streamers can be found all over Japan, and each region has its own differences.
Let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of carp streamers in each region and especially famous carp streamer events.
Characteristics of carp streamers in each area
Koinobori (carp streamers) can be seen throughout Japan, but each region has its own unique characteristics.
Each region has different designs and decorations, reflecting local customs and culture.
Tohoku Region ： In the Tohoku region, many carp streamers are made of traditional Japanese paper or cloth.
In particular, handmade carp streamers are often carefully passed down in families and are well-known as local handicrafts.
Kanto Region: Large, colorful carp streamers are popular in the Kanto region.
Especially in urban areas such as Tokyo and Saitama, large carp streamers are sometimes displayed between skyscrapers, adding glamour to the urban landscape.
Kansai Region ： In the Kansai region, many carp streamers with designs that respect old traditions can be seen.
Cloth carp streamers are common, with a simple but elegant design.
Kyushu Region: In the Kyushu region, each region has its own unique carp streamer culture.
Especially in Fukuoka and Kumamoto prefectures, colorful carp streamers are displayed along rivers and mountainsides, attracting visitors with their spectacular sight.
Introduction of famous carp streamer events
Various carp streamer events are held in various parts of Japan on Children’s Day.
Some of the most famous events are listed below.
Tatebayashi City (Gunma Prefecture) “Koinobori no Sato Matsuri (Carp Streamer Village Festival)” Tatebayashi City holds the “Koinobori no Sato Matsuri (Carp Streamer Village Festival)” every year from April to May.
Here, some 5,000 carp streamers are displayed in the city’s rivers and parks, creating a spectacular scene that overwhelms visitors.
Kamo River (Kyoto Prefecture) “Carp streamers on the Kamo River” Many carp streamers are displayed on the Kamo River in Kyoto Prefecture in time for Children’s Day.
The sight of carp streamers swimming in the river along with the beautiful nature will give you a taste of the ancient capital of Kyoto.
Aso (Kumamoto Prefecture) “Aso no Koinobori Matsuri (Carp Streamer Festival)” is held every year in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture.
The sight of colorful carp streamers fluttering in the wind amidst the great nature surrounded by mountains is truly spectacular.
Kuzuryu River (Fukui Prefecture) “Carp streamers along the Kuzuryu River” In the Kuzuryu River in Fukui Prefecture, many carp streamers are displayed along the riverbed.
Carp streamers fluttering in the river are beautifully reflected on the surface of the water and are sure to delight visitors.
Tidbits of knowledge about carp streamers
There are various interesting trivia about carp streamers that you should know.
Here is more interesting information about the meaning of the Kanji character for Koinobori, the origin of the name, and the reason for the increase in its colors.
Meaning and origin of the Kanji character for carp streamer
The Chinese character for “carp streamer” has a profound meaning.
Koi” is a fish with a strong life force and symbolizes overcoming difficulties.
Nobori” means a banner or streamer, and represents the way it is held high.
The carp streamer is a flag symbolizing strength and growth.
Origin of the name “Koinobori” (carp streamer)
The name of the carp streamer comes from a Chinese legend.
According to the legend, when a carp climbs over a waterfall, it becomes a dragon.
This story came to Japan, and carp streamers were made as a symbol to wish for the growth and success of boys.
Expo is related to the reason for the increase in the color of carp streamers.
Originally, black and red were the most common colors for carp streamers, but the 1970 Osaka World’s Fair was the catalyst for the appearance of colorful carp streamers.
The colorful carp streamers displayed at the Expo became popular, and later new colors such as blue and green were introduced.
This led to even more spectacular and diverse designs of carp streamers, which spread to symbolize the whole family.
Colors of the streamers and their meanings
The five-color streamers attached to the top of the carp streamers have special meanings for each color.
These colors are based on the ancient Chinese theory of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements and symbolize the power and protection of nature.
Blue (wood): growth and prosperity
Red (fire): passion and courage
Yellow (Sat): stability and trust
White (gold): purity and innocence
Black (water): wisdom and depth
The blowing streamers flutter in the wind to drive away evil spirits and protect the peace and safety of the home.
summary
The history and culture of carp streamers has been passed down from ancient times to the present day as an important part of traditional Japanese events.
The custom and event of koinobori is familiar to many people, and its appeal will continue to grow.
Due to changes in response to modern lifestyles and increasing international recognition, koinobori festivals are becoming increasingly diverse and widespread.
We hope that through Koinobori, you will gain a deeper understanding of traditional Japanese culture and feel its charm.
Motenas Japan offers traditional cultural events and experiences similar to koinobori. If you are looking for a traditional culture experience for affluent foreigners, please contact Motenas Japan!
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