Festivals reflect cultural ties between China and Japan

China and Japan, deeply connected through centuries of cultural exchange, share several traditional festivals that have evolved in distinct ways. Among the most notable are Duanwu Festival, or Dragon Boat Festival, Qixi Festival (Tanabata in Japanese) and Chongyang Festival, or Double Ninth Festival. While these celebrations have their origins in China, Japan has developed unique local characteristics, reflecting its social values and historical shifts.

In China, the Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the traditional Chinese calendar, honors the ancient poet Qu Yuan and features customs such as eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and dragon boat racing. When this festival spread to Japan centuries ago, it transformed over time and is now observed on May 5 as "Children's Day," originally known as "Boys' Day."

Inspired by the Chinese legend of a carp leaping over a dragon gate – a symbol of perseverance and success – Japanese families fly carp-shaped streamers called koinobori to wish for their children's healthy growth and bright futures. The festival also reflects the samurai values of bravery and discipline admired during Japan's Edo period over 400 years ago.

China's Qixi Festival, often called the Chinese Valentine's Day, observed on the 7th day of the 7th month of the traditional Chinese calendar, is rooted in the romantic tale of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, also known as Niulang and Zhinyu in Chinese. It is regarded as a festival of love and devotion.

Japan's version, Tanabata, falls on July 7 and expands on the original legend by emphasizing personal aspirations and artistic skills, particularly among women. People write their wishes on colorful paper strips and hang them on bamboo branches. In cities like Sendai, Tanabata is marked by elaborate decorations, street parades and traditional performances, turning the celebration into a vibrant community event.

China's Double Ninth Festival, held on the 9th day of the 9th month of the traditional Chinese calendar, encourages people to climb mountains, admire chrysanthemums and drink chrysanthemum wine – activities symbolizing longevity and respect for the elderly. This festival reached Japan during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and became a significant court ceremony, also known as Chrysanthemum Festival. Over time, its prominence declined, but certain customs, like drinking chrysanthemum-infused wine and eating chestnut rice, still survive in parts of Japan today, preserving traces of the festival's ancient spirit.

These three festivals highlight the shared cultural roots between China and Japan, while also showcasing how traditions adapt to local contexts. They serve not only as reminders of historical ties but also as living expressions of each nation's evolving identity and values.