Suddenly, this golden, shining warlord appeared in the lobby of Dai-ichi Takimotokan!

Each year, Hina Dolls make a stunning display for Hinamatsuri or Girl’s Day celebrated on March 3rd. This year, though, we added a golden warlord as part of another important Japanese holiday called Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) on May 5th. Originally called Tango no Sekku, the holiday used to only be for boys and their fathers; however, in 1948 Japan made it a national holiday for all children, as well as mothers, and subsequently changed its name.

Swords, bows and arrows, and streamers in the shape of carp are all traditional symbols of the holiday and certainly help make this a particularly beautiful decoration to celebrate the day.

The armor and helmet symbolize a wish to keep children safe from traffic accidents and diseases and generally protect the body. Families often fly carp flags outside their homes – one for each member of the family – and enjoy how it appears that they are swimming when the wind catches them.

We think our golden warlord makes an impressive backdrop for a commemorative photo or will make a great picture by itself to tell others about this important holiday. The golden warlord will be in the lobby through Golden Week, so don’t miss the chance to visit him!