Jul 6
Jul 7
View of the Ryozen Kannon from the car park of Kodai-ji

Tanabata at Kodai-ji

Decorated bamboo branches in Kodai-ji's carpark

By Cathy Cawood    - 1 min read
Venue: Kōdaiji Temple When: Jul 6th - Jul 7th 2020 , 9:00am - 5:30pm

Every year Japanese children write wishes on strips of colored paper and use them to decorate bamboo branches for a festival called Tanabata, which takes place on July 7th. Many bamboo branches decorated by kindergartens and schools associated with Kodai-ji are on display in the carpark of the Zen temple. It looks very pretty and festive. If you also have the time to pay the entrance fee and explore the temple's beautiful garden, you won't regret it.

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Cathy Cawood

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

 I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for one year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for nine years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page has some 40,000 followers. I have been the Regional Partner for Yamanashi Prefecture since 2014. I am enjoying exploring the prefectures around Tokyo (I like to get off the beaten track), and I hope the photos and stories I share will encourage more people to discover this wonderful country.

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Kylie Plester 3 years ago
I didn't even know this festival existed, it's so pretty with all the decorations.
Michelle Montano 5 years ago
You have some lovely shots. I love all the colorful decorations during Tanabata.