We have harvested the bamboo for Tanabata this year, as we do every year. We mainly deliver it to kindergartens and nurseries within Kyoto Prefecture.
This year, unusually, the rainy season ended in June, and clear skies have continued, making it seem likely that Orihime and Hikoboshi will be able to reunite safely.
On the other hand, for us doing the cutting work, this season of relentless heat takes a toll on our bodies. Working under the sun in temperatures exceeding 35°C is quite harsh, but by staying hydrated and taking frequent breaks, we managed to complete the work safely, avoiding heatstroke.
The bamboo used for Tanabata begins wilting immediately after cutting, so it must be harvested just before delivery. This means timing the work precisely, regardless of temperature or humidity, making this period extremely demanding every year.
Still, seeing the sparkling eyes and smiles of the children when they receive the bamboo naturally gives us the strength to think, “Let’s do our best again next year.” We are truly delighted if our bamboo can add even a little color to these seasonal celebrations.