Horikawa, Kamogawa, Okazaki and three more sites, Kyoto

Legend has it that there were two devoted lovers, Hikoboshi (Altair star) and Orihime (Vega star), who were separated by the Milky Way; they see each other only once a year on the day of Tanabata (the star festival). Kyo-no-Tanabata is a series of events held in August, which is when Tanabata falls in the lunar calendar. The events are designed around the theme of “Wishes,” in honor of the tradition of making a wish once a year. It is a 10-day event full of beautiful bamboo arrangements and magical light productions. The city center is decorated with lights and traditional Japanese arts and crafts. Each of the six venues hosts fun events for all ages, and visitors are encouraged to walk around in a yukata (summer kimono).