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Kodomo No Hi (Children's Day)
In recognition of the national holiday of Japan to celebrate
children, the JCCCNC presents Children's Day or Kodomo No Hi,
which combines the traditional celebration of Hinamatsuri (Dolls
Day) of March 3rd and Boys Day of May 5th.
 Background
Kodomo no Hi (Children's Day) falls on May 5th and is
one of the most popular national holidays in Japan. Kodo
mo no Hi actually started long ago as Tango no Sekku
(Boy's Day) , a holiday celebrating the male children.
After World War II it was changed to celebrate the health and growth
of all children, in hopes of uplifting the spirits of Japan.
Many of the traditions and decorations related to Children's Day
still reflect those of Boy's Day.
To bring good fortune to the boys in home, koinobori
(colorful carp streamers) are flown outside of houses to wish them
luck for the future. Koinobori are believed to be strong,
spirited fish that are known for their determination in fighting
up streams and through powerful waterfalls. Families also
display kabuto (samurai helmet) and samurai dolls representing
Kintaro, Momotaro and others that symbolize courage.
Another tradition is the offering of kashiwa-mochi, a rice cake
stuffed with bean paste and wrapped in an oak leaf, which is also
a symbol of strength. Iris flowers also bloom during this
time, and are placed in the home to ward off evil.
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School Visits
Wednesday, April 22- Friday, April 24
Monday, April 27- Friday, May 1
(Call for times and reservations)
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
JCCCNC is now recruiting volunteers for the 15th Annual Children's Day School Visits from April 22-May 1!
Any time you can give is much appreciated! Please take a moment to fill in and submit the volunteer form here.
 As
part of JCCCNC’s goal of preserving and cultivating Japanese
American culture, JCCCNC has hosted its Children’s Day School
Visit program. In this program, elementary school students from
the city of San Francisco are introduced to the customs and practices
of this Japanese national holiday. Over 1000 students will participate
in this year's school visit program.
These youth have the opportunity to participate in hands- on arts
and craft projects making mini koinoboiri (carp streamers), sing Children's Day songs, and learn about the meanings and symbolism
of the traditional Japanese Boys and Girls Day doll displays. These
displays are loaned to us from families in the community and many
are several generations old.
If you wish to participate in our annual Children’s Day School
VIsits, please contact Ali Kagawa at (415) 567-5505 x228 or e-mail.
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