This is based on a Chinese legend in which Altair (the star of the herdsman) and Vega (the star of the weaver-princess), though separated on opposite sides of the Milky Way, meet once a year on this day.

People write their wishes on on strips of tanzaku which they hang on a special bamboo tree as a way of praying for good relationships and romantic encounters. 

 Here are a couple of events to be held on the day of Tanabata in Kyoto. 

-Kibune Water Festival at Kibune Shirne 

(During this ritual prayers are offered the the Deity of Rain.The night time illumination is created with lanterns in the shrine precinct) 

-Mitarashi Festival and Tanabata Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine 

(Many stalls related to the deity are set up in front of the shrine. A special Tanabata dance to be preformed as well) 

-Tanabata Festival at Jishu Shrine 

(The home for the Deity of Love. People visit this shrine to write their wishes on on strips of tanzaku which they hang on a special bamboo tree as a way of praying for good relationships and romantic encounters. ) 

(Quoted from Kyoto Visitor`s Guide issued for July) 

Have a good Tanabata day! 

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