In early May, colorful fish-shaped streamers called Koinobori fill the skies across Japan. These carp-shaped flags swim in the wind and play an important role in a Japanese tradition linked to Children’s Day, which falls on May 5th each year.
Children’s Day comes during Golden Week, a special holiday period in Japan. On this day, families celebrate their children’s health, happiness, and growth. Many families hang Koinobori outside their homes, and local communities set up large displays along rivers and in parks. Visitors can enjoy these impressive scenes in both cities and countryside.
This article explains the meaning behind Koinobori and shares five great places to see them during your time in Japan.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What is Children’s Day
Japan celebrates Children’s Day on May 5th every year. This national holiday honors children’s health, happiness, and growth. Families use this day to celebrate their children and wish for their future success.
Originally, Japan called this day Tango no Sekku, which focused on boys. Families prayed for their sons to grow up strong and brave, like samurai warriors. In contrast, families celebrate Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day, on March 3rd by displaying elegant hina dolls and wishing for girls’ health and happiness.
For more about Hinamatsuri, please see the article below
In 1948, the Japanese government renamed Tango no Sekku to Children’s Day and made it a national holiday to celebrate all children, regardless of gender.
Families celebrate Children’s Day with:
Koinobori – colorful carp streamers displayed outside to symbolize strength and success
Kabuto – decorative samurai helmets representing courage and protection
Gogatsu Ningyo – warrior dolls that reflect traditional samurai spirit
Kashiwa mochi – rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves, symbolizing family strength and continuity
Chimaki – sweet rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, a seasonal treat with historical roots
Chapter 2: The Meaning Behind Koinobori
The word Koinobori means “carp streamer” in Japanese. Families fly these colorful streamers in early May to celebrate Children’s Day. The carp, or koi, comes from a Chinese legend where a carp swims upstream and becomes a dragon. This story shows strength, determination, and the ability to overcome challenges.
The Meaning Behind the Colors of Koinobori
Each part of the Koinobori display holds meaning:
Black carp (Magoi) – represents the father
Red or pink carp (Higoi) – represents the mother
Smaller colorful carps – represent each child in the family
Fukinagashi
At the top of the Koinobori display, you’ll find a streamer called Fukinagashi. This decoration features five flowing colors and serves as a protection charm. It symbolizes good luck and acts as a ward against evil spirits, adding an element of spiritual safety to the display.
Chapter 3: 5 Places to See Koinobori near Tokyo
Experience the vibrant tradition of Koinobori—colorful carp-shaped streamers—at these five recommended spots near Tokyo:
Tokyo Tower
Date: Mar 25 (Tue) – May 6 (Tue, Holiday), 2025
Tokyo Tower hosts one of the most dynamic Koinobori displays in the city. In honor of the tower’s height—333 meters—you’ll see 333 colorful carp streamers swimming in the sky.
Among them, one special 6-meter-long Pacific saury streamer (called “sanma” in Japanese) stands out. This unique addition honors Iwate Prefecture’s famous saury and expresses hope for the recovery of areas affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
Tokyo Skytree Town
Date: Apr 11 (Fri) – May 6 (Tue, Holiday), 2025
Tokyo Skytree Town fills the area with the vibrant sight of about 1,000 colorful Koinobori. You’ll find them displayed throughout the complex, creating a festive spring atmosphere.
This large-scale event takes place with the help of some of Japan’s top Koinobori-producing regions, including Kazo City in Saitama Prefecture and Kato City in Hyogo Prefecture. Their craftsmanship brings tradition to life in the heart of Tokyo.
Ryujin Suspension Bridge (Ibaraki)
Date: Apr 26 (Sat) – May 11 (Sun), 2025
Located in Hitachiota City, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Ryujin Suspension Bridge stretches across Ryujin Gorge and ranks as the third longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan.
During the event, around 1,000 colorful Koinobori fly above the gorge, tied across the massive bridge. They look as if they’re swimming through the sky, creating a spectacular view against the natural landscape.
Tatebayashi Koinobori no Sato Festival (Gunma)
Date: Mar 22 (Sat) – May 6 (Tue, Holiday), 2025
Held in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, this festival features thousands of Koinobori fluttering above the Tsuruuda River, creating the illusion that they are floating on the water.
The event takes place at four locations throughout the city, with the Tsuruuda River site offering a magical nighttime light-up. The shimmering reflections and soft lights make it an unforgettable sight.
Kazo Citizen’s Peace Festival (Saitama)
Date: May 3 (Sat), 2025
Held in Kazo City, Saitama Prefecture, the Kazo Citizen’s Peace Festival expresses gratitude for peace and hopes for a safe and secure future for the community.
The highlight of the festival is the appearance of an enormous 100-meter-long Koinobori, displayed only on May 3. This spectacular streamer swims through the sky, drawing crowds every year.
