Who buys Koinobori (carp streamers)?
An easy-to-understand guide to traditional customs and modern perspectives

Many people wonder, "Who buys the Koinobori?" when preparing for their child's first Boys' Day celebration.

You may feel torn between honoring traditional customs and adapting to modern lifestyles.

This article will clarify questions like "Who should buy them?" or "Is it the father's side or the mother's side?" by considering traditional customs, regional differences, and current trends.

Who buys Koinobori?

In short, there are no strict rules about who must buy them.

While it was traditionally common for the mother's family to prepare them, nowadays,

・Families decide after consulting with both sides.
・Costs are split.
・Parents buy them themselves.

It has become common for families to decide freely, depending on their individual circumstances.

Traditional custom: Why the mother's family prepares them

Koinobori and May Dolls have traditionally been prepared by the mother's family.
This is related to the traditional Japanese family structure.

In an era when it was common for women to move into their husband's family home after marriage, maternal grandparents rarely saw their daughter or grandchildren.

It is said that this custom became widespread because they would send Koinobori as a celebration for the first Boys' Day, using it as an excuse to visit.

In other words, this custom originated from family connections.

Regional differences? Cases where the father's family buys them.

In fact, this custom is not universal across Japan.

Depending on the region,

・Kanto and Tokai regions → The father's family prepares them.
・Kansai and Kyushu regions → The mother's family prepares them.

There are such differences.

Also, it varies according to each family's way of thinking, so there is no "correct" way.

Modern trends: It's up to you who buys them.

Nowadays, due to changes in housing circumstances and lifestyles, the way Koinobori are handled has changed significantly.

・Increase in condominium and apartment living
・Popularity of compact indoor Koinobori
・Free decorating styles inspired by social media

Against this backdrop, the idea of "not adhering to strict customs" has become common.

Here are some common scenarios:

・Both families split the cost.
・The May doll and Koinobori are divided between the families.
・Parents primarily purchase them themselves.

What's important is that the entire family can celebrate with satisfaction, not just adhere to formalities.

The meaning behind Koinobori

Koinobori are not just decorations; they carry an important meaning of wishing for a child's growth.

Their origin lies in the Chinese "Toryumon Legend" (Ascension to the Dragon Gate).

From the tale of carp that swim upstream against fierce currents to transform into dragons, they symbolize overcoming difficulties and achieving success in life.

Additionally, modern Koinobori represent the family.

・Black carp (Magoi) = Father
・Red carp (Higoi) = Mother
・Blue or green carp = Children

The sight of multiple carp swimming together also conveys the meaning of family happiness and harmony.

Differences between indoor and outdoor decorations

For Children's Day (Tango no Sekku), in addition to Koinobori, May Dolls are also displayed.

・May Dolls (indoor decoration)
　→ An "amulet" to protect from illness and disaster.

・Koinobori (outdoor decoration)
　→ A symbol to wish for growth and announce it to the gods.

As such, each has a different role, making both meaningful and important decorations.

What's important to prevent trouble

Koinobori are not a cheap purchase.
That's why prior consultation is very important.

● Always discuss in advance

If they are given to you without your knowledge, you might end up thinking, "I really wanted something different..."

● Clearly state your preferences

・Size (outdoor/indoor)
・Design (traditional/modern)
・Budget

Considering the size of your garden and the display location when choosing is key to avoiding mistakes.

● Be especially careful with personalized items

Name flags, for example, often cannot be canceled, so choose carefully.

Such communication can also be an opportunity to deepen family bonds.

What matters is not "who buys it"

Koinobori were traditionally prepared by the mother's family.
However, in modern times, there is no need to adhere to that specific form.

What is important is the family's shared desire for the child's healthy growth.

There is no right answer to who should buy them.
Therefore, both families should discuss it thoroughly and proceed with preparations in a way that satisfies everyone.

If you're unsure about choosing Koinobori...

Currently, there are more compact types that can be displayed indoors, and modern designs that blend with interiors.

At Hare to Kurasu, we offer a wide range of Koinobori and May Dolls, from large outdoor sets to indoor ones.

Please choose a piece that suits your family's lifestyle and is worthy of this important celebration.

May your child's first Boys' Day be a special one, wishing for their healthy growth.