Koinobori

May 2006
Outside our house in Urasa, Japan

These wind socks are traditionally flown outside Japanese homes to celebrate boy's day and wish their sons good fortune. To tell you a little more, "koi" is the Japanese word for a carp fish. The Japanese consider the koi as a symbol of grit and spirit because it can swin up stream against strong currents and cascades. Since these are traits desired in boys, families traditionally flew koinobori from their homes to honor their sons.
A set of streamers usually has three or more fish. The large black one (magoi) represents father. According to a Japanese children's song, the red one (higoi) represents the first born son. However, in modern Japan, many prefer to see it as mother. The small ones (usually green and blue) represent the sons in the family. A new streamer is added each time a new baby is born.
I like this picutre because it really shows the strength of the koi against the strong spring winds! The entire horizontal length of the streamers indicate just how strong the winds were that day. I have also posted a sepia toned image because it enhances the motion of the streamers without being distracted by the colors!
I am indeed fortunate to live so close to tradition!