A Little History

“Children’s Day” was not always all-inclusive. Because this we know for sure, it used to be called “Boy’s Day”. And I guess, the same as in many other cultures, historically boys would have been celebrated as name-keepers and put in charge to be set out for bigger things.

As for when it all started this is a little bit unclear (as so often with that kind of events). However, it is said to have been celebrated for over 700 years. And yes its origin is equally mysterious, with rumors saying that it all started as a celebration for a samurai warrior, hence the name: Boy’s Day.

But Why The Shape Of A Carp?

Well, there are two rival theories. The first is that the koi or carp became the symbol of “Boy’s Day” because of its characteristic of being the most spirited fish, full of energy, holding so much strength it could swim upstream and even conquer the strongest currents and cascades with ease, sternly focused on its goal. Because of this ability to overcome obstacles it became a synonym for courage and success. These being highly desired traits for boys in the old days, families placed the Koinobori outside their houses. In honor of their sons and in the hope these traits would manifest in their little ones.

The 2nd theory, which I do love more I must say, brings us back to mythical Japan, full of legends and stories. Taking us back to the Han Dynasty in China and to an ancient tale of a school of golden koi swimming up the Yellow River. Struggling for one hundred years and being teased by demons one of them finally reached the top of the stream and was ultimately rewarded. As a god was watching and turned it into a majestic golden dragon, an image of pure power and strength.

So no matter which of the two stories you prefer, this graceful fish has become a symbol of strength and courage and is the reason why these days on now “Children’s Day” we see them floating in the wind around homes and businesses alike.

When To Spot The Koinobori

Children’s Day marks the end of Golden week every year on the 5th of May, but this is not just a one day show. It has become a beloved tradition, with many people already hanging the carp- streamers out from mid-April. They also often stay on for a while after. With many popular places in Japan displaying beautiful exhibits of them.

You will see them literally everywhere, but one of my favorite places would be at Tokyo Tower. Where the whole square in front of it is turned into a stream of carps swimming to reach the top. It is a real highlight and with the mild weather around this time of the year, the perfect place to check out. And just on the off-chance that there are some showers when you are in Tokyo, I recommend to check out Nakano Broadway for an amazing indoor display under their covered market.

However, and this is the best part, you will also find them in many shopping malls, especially in more local areas. Which makes this the perfect reason to explore some off-the-beaten-path places. So just go for a wander and see where it takes you.

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This would be the time of the year to see these fish like windsocks everywhere in Japan! ⁣ ⁣ They are called Koinobori, which means "carp streamer" in Japanese. How beautiful are they moving in the wind?!? ⁣ ⁣ Learn more about them in our next article

A post shared by Life In Japan • Travel • Food (@obsessedwithjapan) on May 1, 2020 at 11:54pm PDT

The post Koinobori appeared first on Obsessed with Japan.

So we went for a search of “Obsessed with Japan’s Top 5 Places to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Tokyo”! Because starting from the 20th September to 2nd November the Rugby World Cup is being held in various locations all over Japan, the first of its kind in this Country. We are talking 20 Teams, 48 matches. Exciting right?

But with the tickets long sold out, were will we “unlucky ones” go to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019?  Watching them on TV is one option for sure. But is it not half of the fun to be in a crowd, holding a cold beverage? We definitely prefer the later! So let us introduce our top picks to watch the games in Tokyo! 

Where to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019

Well, it should not come as a huge surprise that this list will include a fair amount of Irish or English pubs along with the good old sports bars. Having lived in Ireland for a long time, there is really nothing that can beat the Irish pub, a pint of Guinness and of course watching the rugby! So here are our Top 5 places to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019 these coming days, in no particular order, we love them all:

1. RUGBY Dinner No Side Club

Takadanobaba

Website: http://nosideclub.jp/

RUGBY Dinner No Side Club is as the name suggests a Rugby only bar! in this list. Meaning it shows rugby games only. From high school to top league professional games. That is dedication we think and makes it the perfect spot to watch the Cup we think! They also do take reservations online via mail.

2. Three Monkeys Café Akihabara

Akihabara

Website: https://www.pasela.co.jp/shoplist/threemonkeyscafe/akihabara/

Three Monkeys Café Akihabara is great because of its size and amount of decent screens! Nothing worse than sitting in a corner with no view of the TV. Also, this 110 seating Restaurant offers food along with your drinks, which is perfect if you are heading out after work.

3. THE DUBLINERS’ CAFE & PUB Shibuya

Shibuya

Website: http://www.dubliners.jp/shop.html

THE DUBLINERS’ CAFE & PUB Shibuya has become somewhat of an institution in Shibuya and there is no exception for sporting events. Where better to see Ireland play than in this Irish pub? order a Guinness and some Fish & Chips and cheer for the boys in green!

4. HUB

Various Locations

Website: http://www.eok.jp/restaurants-bars/group/chain/hub

HUB is a British pub chain that for many expats, has been a little home away from home with its familiar style. It’s one of the top spots in Tokyo for watching international sport. They too will make sure you will be well fed and watered while cheering for your favorite team!

5. Hobgoblin

Roppongi & Shibuya

Website: http://hobgoblin.jp/

Hobgoblin is another one of Tokyo’s musts in terms of sports bars and they especially hold a torch for Rugby! With not just one but five large TV screens, and seating for up to 180 patrons in its Roppongi location it’s a great bar to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019.

Last words..

Plenty of places to hang out this Rugby season, we cannot wait until kick-off! Check out the Schedule of the Games here! This will be an exciting few weeks! And if you still need to stack up on some Rugby Merch, why not check out our friends at Hugerugby.com, one of the biggest online shops for all things Rugby!

The post Top 5 Places to watch the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Tokyo! appeared first on Obsessed with Japan.