Goldfish are one of the symbols of Japanese summer and one of the reasons this is probably so is because of the ubiquitous goldfish booths at local matsuri (festivals). The participant is given a cup and a small “scoop” made rice paper and is allowed to scoop as many goldfish from the trough as they…
Tag: children
Kabutomushi
Though one may not regard the kabutomushi, or rhinoceros beetle, as cute and cuddly, they remain a favorite pet for Japanese children. These huge insects which can grow to 8cm are actually quite docile. Pitted against one another, however, they turn into powerful fighters, though many children no longer participate in beetle battles (much like you…
Keio Rail-Land
Keio is not the most well-known of the Tokyo train lines, but those who live in the outskirts of Western Tokyo are thankful for the Keio line providing service into the busy Shinjuku hub. 45 minutes outside of Shinjuku, however, you can find the Keio Rail-Land, a small but impressive museum of the Keio rail…
Festival Masks
Attend any summer festival in Japan and within the stalls selling delicious yakisoba (fried noodles), kakigori (flavored shaved ice) and yakitori (various meats on skewers), you’ll find a booth selling children’s masks. These masks are available in various characters from Disney to popular Japanese cartoons to traditional (Hyottoko, the funny-faced mythical spirit). Like a Disneyland…
Jizo
The image of Jizo, a jovial bald headed monk, is found throughout Buddhist temples all over Japan, and sometimes seen by themselves on the side of a road or forest path. Jizo is said to be the protector of children, and many parents who have lost a child through abortion, miscarriage or tragedy will appeal to…
蛍祭りFirefly Festival
During the grueling humidity and heat of summer, there is one thing people look forward to: summer festivals. Japanese really know how to celebrate in the heat of summer with some kind of event going on nearly every weekend. One of the unique festivals of summer takes place in a posh neighborhood of western Tokyo…
365 JAPAN 