Image courtesy of Ueno Sojinja
Shichi-Go-San, 七五三, is a cultural tradition that has endured for many years, dating back to antiquity.
Child mortality was high back then, so special ceremonies were created and practiced at the Imperial Court to ensure the continuing health and long life of children at the ages of 3, 5, and 7.
Shichi-Go-San is a Japanese rite of passage and festival celebrated on November 15 to mark the growth and well-being of children aged three and seven for girls, and three and five for boys. Families visit shrines to pray for their children's health and happiness, dress them in traditional attire for photos, and give them special treats like chitose-ame (long-life candy). The celebration dates back to the Heian period, and its name directly translates to "seven-five-three".
The age 3 ceremony is called Kamioki no Gi.
Children’s heads were shaved until they reached the third year. This practice is meant to keep them clean and safe from disease. To celebrate the end of shaving their heads, a special ceremony was conducted for the boys and girls.
You see a little girl in the center of the photo, celebrating Kamioki no Gi. The five-year-old standing on the left side is dressed in traditional Japanese trousers, Hakama. It is a celebration of signaling their start into adulthood. The tall girl on the right side is wearing a kimono robe with a wide obi belt, symbolizing the entry to adulthood.
When you travel to Japan in November, you spot these dressed-up kids at shrines across Japan. They take pride in being part of a long-standing Japanese tradition. Please give them cheers!
