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The warm weather continues in May, and it is pleasant to go outside.
In Japan, it is called "the season of fresh greenery," and since ancient times many events have been held to express gratitude to nature and to wish for the healthy growth of children. Here, I would like to introduce some events in May that can be enjoyed by the whole family in an easy-to-understand manner. I myself love this season and get excited every year.
Children's Day (Dragon Boat Festival)
Children's Day is an important holiday to wish for the growth and happiness of children.
The Koi Noboris (carp streamers) that wobble in the sky, and the helmets and May dolls that are displayed in the house are all decorated with the wish that they will protect the children from bad luck.
Koinobori, in particular, are said to represent parents“ wishes for their children to overcome any difficulties they may face, in reference to the image of a strong carp climbing up a river. Every year, we decorate our balcony with small carp streamers, and the moment they sway in the wind, I feel ”Oh, it's already May.
There is also a custom of eating Kashiwa-mochi (oak cake) and Chimaki (rice cakes), and children are very happy to eat mochi (sticky rice cakes) with Kashiwa-mochi.
🛫 Golden Week (major holiday)
The first half of May marks the long-awaited Golden Week (GW) throughout Japan. This is a time when many people travel and return home to their families, who are usually busy, as it is easier for them to take a large amount of time off.
All the tourist destinations are bustling with activity, just like a festival. I have traveled to GW several times and still have good memories of the time we spent talking in the car while stuck in traffic jams.
Popular tourist spots tend to fill up quickly, so plan early for peace of mind.
🌿 88 nights (May 2 in 2026)
The day that falls on the 88th day counting from Risshun is called "88 nights. It has long been used as a guide for agricultural work, and it is also the season when the harvesting of new tea begins.
The tea piled up on 88 nights is said to be “the tea of longevity and disease-free,” and it has a rich aroma and is truly delicious. Last year, a friend of mine gave me a cup of 88 nights' tea, and I was surprised at the aroma that spread out in the air as soon as I took a sip. Seasonal flavors are very special, aren't they?
🌾 Rice planting season
Although it varies from region to region, May is also the time when rice planting begins. The colors of the sky and mountains reflected on the surface of the water are so beautiful that you may stop to take a look.
The rice fields at this time of year sparkle like a big mirror, and I just want to take pictures of them. This is an important time of year when rice production, which sustains Japan's dining table, begins in earnest.
🌳 Mother's Day (2nd Sunday in May)
Mother's Day is a special day to express our gratitude for all the support we have received from our mothers. The standard gift is a carnation, but recently there are more and more options, such as sweets, ordered dishes, and flower arrangements.
“It is difficult to say ”thank you" because of embarrassment, but on this day, I feel like I can say it naturally. I will never forget when I sent flowers to my mother and she smiled and said, "Wow, I'm so happy! I will never forget the smile on her face when I sent flowers to my mother. Going out for dinner with family is also a wonderful way to spend time together.
🌿 Summary
May in Japan is packed with events related to "nature," "family," and "growth.
When I enjoy seasonal events with my family in the fresh air, my heart somehow feels lighter.
Knowing the customs and events unique to this season will enrich your everyday life.
We hope you will find your favorite way to spend May this year!