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Koinobori

Explore our collection of koinobori, the vibrant and meaningful Japanese kites shaped like fish. Celebrated during Japan's Children's Day, koinobori fish are a symbol of strength, perseverance, and the hope that children will grow up to be brave and successful.

With their colorful and flowing tails, these traditional kites carry deep cultural significance and are often displayed to celebrate the koinobori meaning — a tribute to the carp, which in Japanese folklore is known for swimming upstream and transforming into a dragon. Shop our lucky cat collection, Japanese wind chimes, daruma dolls, and other Japanese decor.

4 products
  • Lucky Cat Koinobori | Japanese Windsock Carp Fish Flag Kite - 1 Pc
    $14.99
    $14.99
  • Koi Fish Inspired Koinobori | Red & Blue Japanese Carp Windsock Flag Kite - 1 Pc
    $14.99
    $14.99
  • Japanese Koinobori Kite | Fish Carp Windsock Flag (Various Sizes) - 1 Pc
    $11.99
    $11.99
  • Koinobori Carp Kite | Japanese Windsock Hanging Fish Streamer Banner - 1 Pc
    $15.99
    $15.99

What is Koinobori?

Koinobori are traditional Japanese carp-shaped kites flown to celebrate Children's Day on May 5th. These brightly colored fish kites are a symbol of the carp’s strength and determination, which is believed to bring good health and success to children.

 According to Japanese folklore, the carp is known for swimming upstream and overcoming obstacles, transforming into a dragon. By displaying koinobori fish during this celebration, families hope to inspire courage and perseverance in their children, encouraging them to grow strong and brave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a koinobori?

The purpose of a koinobori is to celebrate Children's Day in Japan, traditionally held on May 5th. These colorful fish-shaped kites symbolize strength, perseverance, and the hope that children will grow up to be successful and resilient.

Flying koinobori is also a way of honoring the tradition and the symbolism of the carp, which is known for swimming upstream and overcoming adversity.

What does koinobori mean?

Koinobori literally means "carp streamers" in Japanese. The term represents the tradition of flying koinobori fish during Children's Day celebrations.

The koinobori meaning is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where the carp is a symbol of strength, courage, and the ability to overcome challenges, making the kites a visual representation of these values.

What does the Japanese carp kite symbolize?

The Japanese carp kite or koinobori symbolizes perseverance, strength, and success. The carp is revered in Japanese folklore for its ability to swim upstream and transform into a dragon after overcoming obstacles.

By flying koinobori, families hope to inspire their children to grow with strength and determination, and to face life's challenges with courage.

How to hang koinobori?

To hang koinobori, traditionally, they are flown on a flagpole, with each fish representing a member of the family. The largest fish (typically black or blue) represents the father, followed by smaller fish for the mother and children.

The kites are usually hung in a line, and on windy days, they will flutter in the breeze, symbolizing the strength and vitality of the carp. It’s common to hang the koinobori fish outside, from a pole or tree, allowing them to catch the wind and sway gracefully.