Tairyō-bata

Tairyō-bata, Sumoto, Japan

Tairyō-bata (大漁旗), also called tairyo-ki, are traditional Japanese fisherman's flags originally flown by boats to signify a large catch of fish. Today they are used as a decorative flag on vessels as well as for festivals and events.

Literally translated as "big catch flag", each rectangular flag bears an intricate design specific to the company or boat, typically involving bright colors and ocean motifs. Many of these flags can be seen in the coastal communities of Japan. The Shiyogama Shrine in the Sendai region issues tairyo-bata to new-born infants, apparently as a jokey reference to the baby being a big catch.

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