#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Tanabata #Nakayoshi Nursery

A Day of Joy at Nakayoshi Nursery's Tanabata Festival

On July 7, 2025, the Nakayoshi Nursery at Okayama University hosted a vibrant Tanabata festival that enchanted children ranging from infants to five-year-olds.
With festive spirits high, the older children kicked off the celebration by performing a lively dance called "Tanabata Batabata," leaving the audience in awe. Following their performance, the youngsters enjoyed a delightful screening of a Tanabata-themed movie and sang traditional songs in celebration of the star festival. The participation of the five-year-old class shone as they donned colorful happi coats, showcasing sample dances and assisting with games, pouring energy and enthusiasm into the festival atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the younger children embraced the celebration with various activities. They navigated through walking ramps, slid down slides, and joyfully played with star-decorated toys and tunnels. The festival's spirit was captured in the game corners scattered throughout the nursery. Among the games were activities like rocket launching, ice cream stacking, and even a thrilling game called "Wani Wani Panic." Children were completely absorbed in their fun-filled exploits, showcasing their playful spirits.

The excitement escalated as the children lined up for the coveted water yo-yo fishing game. Encouragement from Yoshiyoshi Yokomatsu, the head of the nursery, and Mami Okada, a caretaker of the sick-child care room at Masukasuto, made the experience all the more special, aiding children in their quest to catch their favorite colored yo-yos. Adding to the joy was Tetsushi Yamashita from the Good Job Center, commonly known among the kids as "the cleaning uncle," who handed out yo-yos they had caught, evoking smiles of pure happiness on the little ones' faces.

As lunchtime approached, a special meal awaited. The children relished a delicious menu featuring corn rice, star-shaped hamburgers, and pudding, which delighted all their palates. Some even asked for seconds, savoring every delicious bite.

The event lasted from the morning until noon and turned out to be a highly enriching time for the children. They expressed their joy by telling their peers, "I had so much fun dancing and playing games!" and "I can't wait to do this again!" Balloon gifts and prizes rounded off their special festival experience, providing further joy in a setting unlike their everyday routines.

Yumi Tamura, the deputy head of the nursery, reflected on the day's success, stating, "This was a great opportunity for the children to familiarize themselves with seasonal events and Japanese culture. The wishes written on the colorful tanzaku strips were created with their families, providing a moment of warmth and reflection together. I hope that through such events, the children can grow up with a healthy heart and spirit."

As the Nakayoshi Nursery at Okayama University continues its initiatives, there is much anticipation for future celebrations and activities to come.