Every year on May 5th (the fifth day of the fifth month), Kodomo-no-hi or Children’s Day is celebrated in Japan. Originally a celebration for boys, it was changed in 1948 to include all children to celebrate their individuality and wish them happiness.
Leading up to May 5, colourful carp streamers known as koinobori are hung outside of homes and buildings to bring children good fortune. The carp symbolize inner strength and determination as they are known to swim upstream through powerful waterfalls. Dolls depicting miniature samurai warriors can also be seen on display.
This is one of the many cultural traditions that immigrants from Japan may have brought with them to Canada, as they settled into their new homes, not only to teach the next generation, but to help their children feel connected to their cultural heritage.
During the weekend of May 3rd, look for some colourful origami decorations around Murakami House at Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. Look inside to find origami samurai helmets (Kabuto) and origami koinobori on display.
May is Asian Heritage Month, a time to discover and celebrate the diverse history of Asian communities in Canada, their contributions and their legacies .
