#allsummer

Essential Japanese Seasonal Decorations - Summer

Seasonality: All Summer/ May - July

Japanese Name: Natsu Matsuri/ Kingyo

English Name: Summer Festival/ Goldfish

    Natsu matsuri (夏祭, summer festivals) is a collective term for festivals observed in summer from the beginning of July through the end of August. Many summer festivals in Japan were either originally associated with O-bon, Tanabata, Gion, and other festivals, or had a peripheral relationship with them. Many of the natsu matsuri tend to have originated in the events observed in rural communities to relieve farmers' fatigue from their agricultural work in the summer season, or originated in the events observed in urban communities to hold memorial services for the people who died from epidemic in summer before the Edo Period. According to folklore research, a natsu matsuri is also interpreted to be a result of development of ancient utagaki (歌垣, a poetry reading party). At some port towns, a variety of natsu matsuri with abundant local colors are unfurled, including minato matsuri (port festivals). A lot of festivals at shrines are also observed in this season. Typical events held for most natsu matsuri include: O-bon festival dance, fireworks, street stalls, karaoke contests, magic shows as well as performances of popular songs and animated children’s television characters. 

    Kingyo (金魚, goldfish) were introduced into Japan via China in the 16th century where they were popular and kept only by the aristocracy and samurai. The Japanese set up breeding programs and eventually developed their unique strains of goldfish to be appreciated from the top view. Thereafter, kingyo-sukui (金魚すくい, goldfish scooping) became popular during the Edo period, leading to the sale of goldfish in towns. Goldfish are a particularly beloved summer feature in Japan that will make you feel “coolness” and “healing” with the way it elegantly swims in water on a hot summer’s day. 

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