During the summer holidays, children indulge in a variety of activities typical of the season. Nagashi somen, suikawari, crushed ice in syrup and ennnitchi are rituals that all Japanese enjoy.
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Nagashi soumen（流しそうめん） is a fun way to enjoy somen, the very thin noodles that roll down bamboo split in two and, mounted one after the other, form a slope. You have to catch the somen with chopsticks. This practice dates back to the thirties of the last century in Miyazaki prefecture on the island of Kyushu, when workers cooled somen in bamboo with ice-cold water from the Takatchiho gorge. This method inspired children and adults alike, until the whole of Japan got hold of it and a specially dedicated machine was designed.
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Ennnitchi（縁日） is a special day when the Japanese go to the areas around temples where street food stands are concentrated. They eat yakisoba, crushed ice and other sweets or small dishes that are now known as "street food". Children play catch with balloons or throw rings. These games are organised according to the specific dates of each temple, which celebrates a deity or a deceased monk. They were particularly popular during the Edo period, and were a great place for social interaction. Even today, these places are full of warmth and nostalgia for the Japanese.
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Kakigōri（かき氷）, crushed ice in syrup, is the must-have snack for children this summer. They wait their turn wisely and order their personal composition from the shopkeeper: a particular flavour of syrup, possibly condensed milk and sometimes red bean paste. Once crushed with a plane, the ice cream now goes through a special machine.
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Suika-wari（スイカ割り） is the most symbolic ritual of the summer holidays. It involves placing a whole watermelon on the sand or by a river and trying to open it blindly with a stick, guided by the shouts of onlookers. The children are delighted to bite into the fruit they have helped to prepare. There's no doubt that the festive spirit has something to do with it.
Japan Stories