Tom: Summer in Japan is too hot. Miho: It’s not that the temperature is particularly high, but rather the humidity. Tom: I often see young girls wearing something like a kimono in town. What do you call this? Miho: That is called a yukata, and the kanji means “bathing outfit.” In the old days it was used as a robe for after baths and as pajamas. Tom: I remember there was one laid out in my room when I stayed at a hot spring ryokan. Miho: They are often worn at fireworks festivals. Their designs differ from the traditional ones and have become more colorful. Tom: If you’re talking about fireworks, Japan can’t be beat, can it? Miho: In summer, firework displays are held in many places. No matter where you go, it is very crowded. Tom: The Star Festival is also held in many places, isn’t it? Miho: Held in early August, Sendai’s Star Festival is famous. But in the Tokyo area and other regions it is more commonly held in July. Tom: How come? Miho: The date of the Star Festival is July 7. The Sendai Star Festival is held to coincide with that date on the traditional old calendar.