Celebrating Shichi-Go-San: A Japanese Tradition

Shichi-Go-San (七五三) is a traditional Japanese holiday held annually on November 15th. This celebration is dedicated to the growth and well-being of young children, specifically for boys who are three and five years old, and girls who are three and seven years old. The term "Shichi-Go-San" literally translates to "Seven-Five-Three," corresponding to the ages of the children being honoured.

Quiz! Do you know why the ages of 7, 5, and 3 are celebrated in particular? Read the article to find out!

The origins of Shichi-Go-San date back to the Heian period (794-1185) when aristocratic families celebrated the passage of their children from infancy to childhood. Over time, this custom spread to samurai families during the Edo period (1603-1868) and eventually became a widespread practice among common people around the Meiji period. The ages of three, five, and seven are considered significant in Japanese culture, symbolizing critical stages of growth in a child's life. During this period in Japanese history, there were many poor families and food and medical care was not as abundant as it is today, with many children unfortunately not making it to adulthood. Thankfully this is not the case nowadays, but the feeling of wanting to celebrate children's growth and wellbeing is as strong as ever.

On this special day, families dress their children in traditional attire - boys typically wear hakama (a type of traditional trousers) and girls don beautiful kimonos. The families then visit Shinto shrines to offer prayers for the children’s healthy growth and happiness. One of the common practices includes, or "thousand-year candy," which is a long, thin, red-and-white candy symbolizing healthy growth and longevity. The candy is often given in decorative bags featuring cranes and turtles, which are traditional symbols of long life in Japan.

While the essence of Shichi-Go-San remains rooted in tradition, contemporary celebrations have evolved. Many families now opt for professional photo sessions where children are dressed in both traditional and modern outfits. These photos serve as treasured keepsakes capturing this milestone in the children's lives.

Shopping malls and department stores often have special Shichi-Go-San sections, offering kimonos, accessories, and other ceremonial items, making it easier for families to prepare for the festivities. Some families even incorporate Western elements, blending different cultural practices to create a unique celebration.

Shichi-Go-San is more than just a day of celebration; it is a time for family bonding and passing down cultural heritage to the next generation. It reinforces the importance of family, community, and the traditions that shape the Japanese way of life.

By observing Shichi-Go-San, families not only celebrate their children's growth but also contribute to the preservation of this beautiful cultural tradition, ensuring that it continues to thrive in modern Japan.

Why 7, 5 and 3?

Since ancient times, these years have been celebrated throughout Japan and each age came with its own special ritual. When a child reached the age of 3, it was tradition to allow the child to start growing its hair, which until then had been kept shaved since birth. At the age of 5, boys would wear traditional male garments called Hakama and Haori in an event called Hakamagi no Gi. And finally at the age of 7, girls would wear their own traditional clothing, the Obi, for the first time. It was also the first time that a girl would experience wearing makeup! 

Shichi-Go-San is a heartwarming celebration that highlights the joy and gratitude of watching children grow. Whether through traditional shrine visits or modern photo shoots, the spirit of Shichi-Go-San remains a cherished part of Japanese culture, connecting past and present through the celebration of life’s precious milestones.