Pokegue: Tanabata

Title: たなばた

The 7th day of the 7th month. There is something quite poetic in the choice of celebration on this particular day. But in the case of Japan, this day refers only to one thing: Tanabata. Tanabata is a celebration which occurs every year in Japan. It is associated with people of all ages making a wish, writing it on colorful strips of paper (tanzaku) and tying them to a bamboo tree. This tree may be at a shrine or simply tastefully put in your front garden. The festivity itself is on July 7, but leading up to it people will write their tanzaku and hang it on a tree, adding to the festive atmosphere. Often called the “Valentines of Japan”.

自業自得

Translation: “Work of self, obtainment of self”

Meaning: Similar to “you get what you give,” only the Japanese version sounds way more fulfilling.