Japanese Children Celebrate Sports Day

The “undokai” is an annual sports day held at every Japanese elementary and middle school in either May or September. Although schools in other countries also have sports days, the many of the “undoukai” activities are unique to Japan and the event is an important part of Japanese culture. During an “undoukai” the entire student body is divided into the white team and the red team. These two teams compete against each other through activities like a running race, tama-ire (throwing balls into a basket propped up by a pole), and a relay run. Part of the fun is that most parents come and the moms cook food packed in bento boxes. Parents lie out picnic sheets and surround the school field. If you are in Japan in May or September, try checking out a “undokai.”