JStories presents a special golden week holiday program of photo stories that capture Tokyo as it is today, through the eyes of a diverse range of photographers.
The JStories staff, from a variety of backgrounds, found and photographed things in the city’s streets that were somehow uniquely Japanese or had innovative ideas, ranging from things that have existed in Japan for a long time to things that only exist now, in May 2025. In these everyday scenes, ideas for innovations originating in Japan may emerge, leading to solutions for global problems.
JStories ー This year, Tokyo Tower has once again welcomed the spring season with its vibrant colors. To celebrate the traditional Japanese Children’s Day, formerly known as Tango no Sekku, the main entrance on the first floor is adorned with colorful koinobori (carp streamers). These brightly colored carp-shaped streamers were on display from March 25 (Tuesday) to May 6 (Tuesday, national holiday).
In a nod to the tower’s height of 333 meters, 333 vivid carp flutter in the breeze. When the wind catches them, the streamers appear as a school of fish swimming in the sky.
Among these koinobori is one special, six-meter-long streamer, symbolizing the deep bond between Tokyo Tower and Ofunato City in Iwate Prefecture. This giant “Sanma no Bori” (mackerel pike streamer) was first raised in April 2011 in support of recovery efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. Since then, it has become an annual part of Tokyo Tower’s spring decorations.
Ofunato City is known for having the highest mackerel catch volume in Honshu (ranked #1 for seven consecutive years from 2015), and its landing value held the number one spot in Honshu for ten consecutive years from 2012.
The connection between Tokyo Tower and Ofunato City was established through a mackerel event in 2009, and the friendly relationship has continued ever since.
The blue sky, the red Tokyo Tower, and the colorful koinobori provide a delightful visual treat.
Although koinobori are no longer commonly seen in Tokyo, they continue to be celebrated as an important symbol of spring at Tokyo Tower. These streamers symbolize wishes for the healthy growth of children. The site is becoming increasingly recognized as a popular destination for foreign tourists.
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Written by Nicolas Ito
Top video: Giulia Righi, Nicolas Ito, Alexander Cas | JStories
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