Did you know that China and Japan share some really cool festivals? 🌟 Even though they’re different countries, their traditions have crossed borders and connected people for centuries. Let’s explore some of these amazing festivals and see how they reflect the ties between China and Japan! 🎉
Dragon Boat Festival & Children’s Day 🐉👶
In China, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. People race dragon-shaped boats and eat tasty zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). It’s all about honoring the ancient poet Qu Yuan. 📜
When this festival reached Japan, it transformed into Children’s Day, celebrated on May 5th. Japanese families fly colorful carp-shaped streamers called koinobori to wish for their children’s health and happiness. 🐟 The carp symbolizes strength and courage because of a legend about a carp swimming upstream to become a dragon! 🐲
Qixi Festival & Tanabata 🌌💫
China’s Qixi Festival, sometimes called Chinese Valentine’s Day, is all about the love story of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl who can only meet once a year on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month. ❤️
In Japan, this festival became Tanabata, celebrated on July 7th. People write their wishes on colorful papers called tanzaku and hang them on bamboo branches. 🎋 It’s a time for making dreams and hopes for the future!
Double Ninth Festival & Chrysanthemum Festival 🎴🌼
China’s Double Ninth Festival, held on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, is about climbing mountains and appreciating chrysanthemums. It’s a day to respect elders and wish for longevity. 🧓
In Japan, this became the Chrysanthemum Festival. While it’s not as widely celebrated today, some traditions like drinking chrysanthemum wine and enjoying beautiful flowers still continue. 🌸
Connecting Cultures Through Festivals 🌐🎊
These festivals show how China and Japan have shared and adapted traditions over time. Even though they’ve changed in each country, they still bring people together and help us appreciate different cultures. Next time you see a dragon boat or a carp streamer, you’ll know the awesome history behind it! 🚣♀️🎏
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
