At Nagasaki Wesleyan University, we are celebrating Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival! A beautiful bamboo branch has been set up in the Student Lounge, and all students are invited to write their wishes on colorful paper strips and hang them on the branch.

What is Tanabata?

Tanabata is a traditional Japanese festival held every year on July 7. It is based on an old legend from China about two stars: Orihime (the weaving princess) and Hikoboshi (the cowherd). These two lovers are separated by the Milky Way and can only meet once a year, on the night of Tanabata.

On this day, people in Japan write their wishes on paper called “tanzaku” and hang them on bamboo branches. It is a way to send dreams and hopes to the stars. The decorations are often very colorful and include origami and streamers.

A Way to Enjoy Summer Together

At our university, the Tanabata display is not only a cultural celebration but also a way to bring our students, staff, and faculty together. With many international students from all over the world, this is a great chance to learn about Japanese traditions and share in the experience of writing wishes and enjoying summer together.

For students who are experiencing Japan’s hot and humid summer for the first time, Tanabata is a nice way to take a break, relax indoors, and feel connected to the season and to one another.

We hope the display in the Student Lounge creates a warm and welcoming space for conversation and cross-cultural exchange. Whether you are writing in Japanese, English, or your native language, your wishes are welcome!

Stay Cool and Enjoy Tanabata!

We invite everyone—Japanese and international students—to join in and decorate the bamboo branch with your wishes. Let’s make this summer a memorable one filled with shared smiles and hopes for the future.

Stay cool and enjoy the summer and Tanabata!