Japan enters a time of outdoor celebrations and festivals in the summer. The seventh day of the seventh month marks Tanabata, or the Star Festival, and on this day once a year lovers from an old folklore are able to meet via the Milky Way.
Just as these sweethearts were granted their wish to see each other again, Japanese mark the day by writing their desires on colorful paper and hanging them up on bamboo wishing trees. As summer nights offer a cool respite and brilliantly display the stars, we encourage you to make a wish. May they all be granted!