Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, is a traditional Japanese event that takes place on July 7th. It celebrates the romantic legend of two stars: Orihime (the weaver star, Vega) and Hikoboshi (the cowherd star, Altair). According to the story, these lovers are separated by the Milky Way and can only meet once a year on this special day.
The Legend Behind Tanabata
The story comes from an old Chinese legend and was introduced to Japan over 1,000 years ago. Orihime was a princess who loved to weave beautiful cloth. Her father, the Sky King, arranged her marriage to Hikoboshi, a hardworking cowherd. But after getting married, they stopped working and spent all their time together. The Sky King became angry and separated them with the Milky Way, allowing them to meet only once a year—on the night of Tanabata.
How People Celebrate
One of the most common ways to celebrate Tanabata is by writing wishes on small pieces of colored paper called tanzaku. These are then hung on bamboo branches along with other decorations. People write wishes about love, success, health, or dreams for the future. Cities and towns often hold Tanabata festivals with parades, fireworks, and beautiful decorations.
Different Dates in Different Places
Although July 7th is the most common date, some areas in Japan celebrate Tanabata in August, depending on the traditional lunar calendar.
A Night of Hope and Dreams
Tanabata is more than just a romantic tale—it is a time for people to look up at the stars, make wishes, and hope for happiness. It reminds us that even if people are far apart, love and dreams can bring them together.
Let us celebrate Tanabata with hope in our hearts, just like Orihime and Hikoboshi, who never gave up on meeting each other under the stars.
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