ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Children's Day (Japan)

Children's Day is a special holiday in Japan where all the kids get their own special day to be celebrated and appreciated. It's like a big birthday party for all the children in Japan! The holiday was created to promote the happiness and well-being of the children.

On Children's Day, which is celebrated on May 5th every year, parents and grandparents often fly colorful carp fish-shaped flags outside their homes. These fish flags are called koinobori and represent strength, courage, and perseverance - great qualities for kids to have.

There are also many traditional foods that people enjoy on Children's Day, such as sticky rice cakes wrapped in leaves, called kashiwamochi, and sweet bean paste snacks shaped like samurai helmets, known as kashiwa-mochi.

Kids usually receive gifts on this day as well, like special toys and games that help them learn important skills like problem-solving, creativity, and imagination. It's a day that celebrates kids and encourages them to keep growing and learning!