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Tanabata decorations; ornamental strips and streamers for the Star Festival
Colorful paper decorations — primarily 短冊 (paper strips with wishes), origami cranes, and streamers — hung on bamboo branches for the July 7 Tanabata festival.
Compound of 七夕 (Star Festival, July 7) + 飾り (decoration). Refers collectively to the bamboo-and-paper decorations displayed in homes, schools, train stations, and shopping districts.
Common components
- 短冊: paper strips inscribed with wishes
- 折り鶴: origami cranes
- 吹き流し: streamers
- 笹飾り: bamboo decoration (alternative name)
Cultural note
The Tanabata legend tells of two stars — Orihime and Hikoboshi — who can meet only once a year across the Milky Way. People write wishes on 短冊 hoping the stars will grant them. The Sendai Tanabata Festival is famous for its elaborate displays.