A timeless legend of love among the stars

Tanabata, meaning “the seventh night,” originates from an ancient Chinese tale later embraced and reimagined by Japanese culture. It tells the story of Orihime, the daughter of the Sky God, who wove magnificent fabrics for the heavens. One day, her father introduced her to Hikoboshi, a young celestial cowherd living across the Milky Way. The two fell deeply in love.

But lost in their affection, Orihime neglected her weaving, and Hikoboshi abandoned his cattle. Angered, the Sky God separated them by creating a celestial river — the Milky Way — forbidding them to meet. Moved by his daughter’s sorrow, he allowed them to reunite once a year, on the night of July 7th, if the skies are clear. On that night, it is said that a flock of magpies forms a bridge across the stars so the lovers can be together again.

A summer tradition to share

In Japan, Tanabata is celebrated with colorful decorations, lanterns, and wishes written on bamboo. It’s not only a tribute to an ancient tale, but also a joyful way to mark the beginning of summer — a time for hope, connection, and renewal.