LESSON 1

CHILDREN'S DAY AT SHOFUSO

An educational series - japanphilly.org

J A P A N A M E R I C A S O C I E T Y O F G R E A T E R P H I L A D E L P H I A

Children's day is a Japanese national holiday setaside to celebrate children and to hope for theirhappy, healthy future. The tradition dates back to the6th century in Japan as an annual imperial courtceremony held on the fifth day of the fifth month.Over time, the ceremony evolved into two separatecelebrations for both boys and girls. In 1948, the Japanese government formallydesignated May 5th as the official holiday tocelebrate all children in Japan.

WHAT IS CHILDREN'S DAY?

C H I L D R E N ' S D A Y A T S H O F U S O - J A P A N P H I L L Y . O R G

Shofuso displays thesetraditional decorations the

first week of May every year!

Children's Day sees many colorful andornate displays, many handed down fromgeneration to generation. Koinobori - These majestic eye-catchingstreamers or windsocks are decorated likekoi fish, a symbol of long life andheartiness in Japan, and flown each Mayduring Children's Day. Yoroi - The traditional Japanese armorworn by the samurai class in feudal Japan,these often miniature displays of armorwere originally a part of the Boy's Dayfestivities. Now a regular sight duringChildren's Day, the armor projects a senseof strength and vitality. Hina Dolls - Hinamatsuri, or Doll's Day, isthe traditional Girl's Day celebration, takingplace on March 3rd. The dolls representdifferent members of the Japaneseimperial court, specifically around theHeian period (794-1185 CE)

HOW IS IT CELEBRATED?

C H I L D R E N ' S D A Y A T S H O F U S O - J A P A N P H I L L Y . O R G

At the start of May each year, Shofusohosts hundreds of children from all overthe greater Philadelphia area for a weekof exciting activities and experiences. These include an interactive kimonodressing demonstration and athundering taiko drum performance! Three of these activities, a simplekoinobori craft, an interactive fan dancedemonstration, and a brief tour ofShofuso, are all included digitally in thispack.

HOW IS IT CELEBRATEDAT SHOFUSO?