Tanabata, known as the Japanese Star Festival, celebrates the annual meeting of celestial lovers Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair), separated by the Milky Way. Originating from the Chinese tradition Qixi, Tanabata involves writing wishes on paper strips and hanging them on bamboo. The festival has evolved since the Heian era, blending with other traditions like Bon Odori. The touching legend of the lovers’ reunion, aided by a bridge of cranes, continues to be a central theme.
