Seattle's Chinatown - International District neighborhood is the cultural hub of the Asian American community and has been a National Register Historic District since the late 1970s. The neighborhood was in the midst of a downturn when, in 1973, a Special Review Board was established to promote, preserve, and perpetuate the cultural, economic, historical, and otherwise beneficial qualities of the area, particularly the features derived from its Asian heritage.

In this image community members surround a flag pole, watching the raising of the koinobori, carp-shaped wind socks traditionally flown to celebrate Children's Day, a Japanese national holiday which takes place annually on May 5. The Smith Tower is visible in the background.

Caption information source: "Seattle Neighborhoods: Chinatown-International District — Thumbnail History," by Walt Crowley, HistoryLink.org Essay 1058