Kodomo-no-hi
Dateline: 04/01/98
Originally known as boy's day, it is now a celebration of all children. Much like Girl's Day (Hinamatsuri), dolls for boys are put on display in homes. The dolls are patterned after warriors and heroes. Carp are another symbol of Children's Day. They represent strength (known to swim up waterfalls), and success in life. An ancient practice of bathing with flag plant leaves is also observed on this day; it is said to have medicinal values. It is also important on this day to make offerings of Japanese confections: rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves and rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves.
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