Description
The leaves of the Kaji tree (Paper mulberry) are said to be large, and in ancient times, it is said that people used to write characters on these leaves. During the Heian period, on the Tanabata festival, lyrics were written on these leaves and celebrated. Later on, this motif became associated with Tanabata, often combined with brushes and flowing water (representing the Milky Way). Examples of this can be seen in the patterns of kimono sleeves from the Edo period. It is also used in family crests.
