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Many of you might be interested in the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship. If so, have you ever heard of May Koinobori?
If you’re interested in exploring more about activities in Japan at this time of season, please take a look at below.
In Japan, families raise koinobori (carp streamers) in May to celebrate the healthy growth of boys. The tradition is believed to have originated in China. During the Edo period, when a boy was born to a shogun, there was a custom of raising flags with the family crest and nobori (streamers) to celebrate. This practice spread, and it became common for families to display these flags or streamers when a boy was born, marking the start of the koinobori tradition.
The “Sakai-May-Koinobori” is a traditional craft from Osaka Prefecture. It features a design of Kintaro riding a carp, with a three-dimensional structure. These dynamic yet delicately shaded koinobori are all handmade. Skilled artisans, using no preliminary sketches, paint each one with dozens of brushes and handpicked pigments, showcasing their mastery.
Source: SAKAI CITY
Only around five workshops in Japan still make hand-painted koinobori. One of them, Takagi, is located in Sakai City. From October 19th to 21st, Takagi’s sixth-generation craftsman, Takada Takeshi, a certified traditional craftsman, will be demonstrating his skills at the “SAKAI DENSHOKAN”, Sakai Traditional Crafts Museum. It’s a rare chance to witness this craftsmanship up close. Make sure to visit Sakai for this unique experience!
Source: SAKAI CITY
Further Details: View Website
Address: 1-1-30 Zaimokucho-nishi Sakai-ku Sakai 590-0941