Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese celebration that honors the healthy growth of children.
The name literally means “Seven-Five-Three,” representing the ages of 7, 5, and 3, which mark important milestones in a child’s early life.
For centuries, Japanese families have expressed gratitude and prayers for their children’s safe growth through this event.
⛩️ Origin: “Children Belong to the Gods Until the Age of Seven”
The tradition of Shichi-Go-San is deeply rooted in the ancient belief that “children up to seven years old belong to the gods.”
🔹 High Infant Mortality in the Past
In ancient Japan, when medicine was not yet advanced, infant mortality was very high.
To see a child survive and grow was not something to take for granted — it was considered a blessing and even a miracle.
🔹 Children as “Divine Beings”
People believed that until around age seven, children were not yet firmly settled in this world.
They were thought to belong to the gods — sacred beings whose lives still moved between the spiritual and human realms.
🔹 Becoming “Human Children”
Once a child reached the age of seven, they were finally regarded as fully human and officially recognized as a member of their local community (ujiko) by the guardian deity (ujigami-sama).
Thus, Shichi-Go-San became a rite of passage celebrating a child’s transition from “a child of the gods” to “a child of the people,” expressing both gratitude and a prayer for divine protection.
👘 When Is Shichi-Go-San Celebrated?
Traditionally, it is held on November 15.
This date coincides with the harvest season — a time to thank the gods — and the mild autumn weather makes it ideal for family celebrations.
Today, many families choose a convenient weekend in November to visit a shrine together.
🏮 What Happens on This Day?
Families visit Shinto shrines to pray for their children’s continued health and happiness.
Children wear traditional kimono or formal suits, and family photos are taken to mark the occasion.
For girls especially, the colorful kimono and elaborate hairstyles make this a memorable and joyful event.
🍬 What Is Chitose Ame (Thousand-Year Candy)?
A must-have treat for Shichi-Go-San is Chitose Ame, long thin red-and-white candy sticks symbolizing longevity, health, and happiness.
The word chitose means “a thousand years,” expressing the wish for a long and prosperous life.
🌸 Meanings by Age
| Age | Gender | Meaning | Traditional Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 years old | Boys & Girls | Celebration of letting hair grow | Kamioki (髪置) |
| 5 years old | Boys | Celebration of wearing the hakama for the first time | Hakamagi (袴着) |
| 7 years old | Girls | Celebration of wearing the kimono with a proper obi belt | Obitoki (帯解) |
These ancient coming-of-age rituals continue to be cherished in modern Japan, connecting past and present through tradition.
🎉 Shichi-Go-San Today
In modern times, many families emphasize commemorative photography, often booking studio sessions in advance (maedori).
It’s also common to invite grandparents and extended family, turning the day into a warm gathering that strengthens family bonds.
🌏 Message to Visitors from Abroad
Shichi-Go-San is a uniquely Japanese celebration of life, gratitude, and family love.
It’s more than a festival — it’s a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the gift of life and the divine protection believed to watch over children.
Through this beautiful tradition, Japan’s spirit of gratitude, prayer, and family connection continues to shine across generations.