
Updated at 2022-04-16
Kites were introduced to Japan during the Tang Dynasty. They became popular among the common folk, who regarded them as symbols of good fortune during the Edo period. It is said that kites were flown in the house of Tokugawa Ieyasu at the time of the birth of his second son, Yuki Hideyasu. This tradition was consequently preserved over the generation, whereby kites were decorated when boys were born into the family and flown on the first Dragon Boat Festival. This custom, known as hatsudako, symbolizes good health and fortune. This custom remains prevalent among Kanto to Chubu regions, which includes Chiba Kazusa area.
Alliance Date: August 9, 2016
Language: Japanese
Area: 5,156 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 6,280,000 people
Main industry: Chiba Prefecture has a strong focus on industrial and commercial development, with the Port of Chiba at the center forming the Keiyo Industrial Zone, a hub for the petroleum and steel industries and a key distributor of raw materials and energy for industry. Narita International Airport located in Chiba attracts industries such as aviation and international logistics, serving as a base for many foreign investments.