Shichi-Go-San: Celebrating 3, 5, and 7-Year-Old Milestones

Why 3, 5, and 7? The Magic of Odd Numbers

In East Asian philosophy (Yin and Yang), odd numbers are considered lucky (Yang), while even numbers are considered unlucky (Yin). The ages of 3, 5, and 7 are key milestones in a child's life.

Age 3 (Boys & Girls): Kamioki

"Keeping the Hair" ceremony.
In the Heian period, babies of both genders had their heads shaved. At age three, they were finally allowed to grow out their hair. This ritual marked their transition from infancy to toddlerhood.

Age 5 (Boys): Hakamagi

"Wearing the Hakama" ceremony.
This is the first time a boy wears the Hakama (traditional pleated trousers). It symbolizes his first step towards becoming a man and a formal member of society. He stands on a Go board facing a lucky direction, representing his determination to stand on his own two feet.

Age 7 (Girls): Obitoki

"Unfastening the Sash" ceremony.
Until age seven, girls wore kimonos tied with simple cords. From this age, they begin wearing the stiffer, formal Obi sash, just like adult women. It marks the beginning of their journey into womanhood.

Decoding the Kimono Patterns

The patterns on the children's kimonos are not just decorative; they are visual prayers woven by parents.

The Secret of Chitose Ame

You will see every child holding a long, thin bag. Inside is Chitose Ame (Thousand-Year Candy).

• Shape: Long and thin (must be within 1 meter), symbolizing a wish for a "long and tenacious" life.
• Colors: Red and White, the most auspicious color combination in Japan.
• Bag Design: Decorated with Cranes and Turtles (symbols of longevity) and Pine, Bamboo, and Plum (symbols of resilience).

Regional Differences

Japan is a long archipelago, and customs vary by region.

• Kanto (Tokyo area): Traditional style is strictly followed.
• Hokkaido (North): Because November is too cold, it is often celebrated a month early, around October 15th.
• Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto): Sometimes called "Himo-otoshi" or "Jusan Mairi" (Age 13 celebration) is given more weight in some districts.

A Typical Shichi-Go-San Schedule

For families in Japan, this is a major logistical event.

1. Preparation: Booking rental kimonos and photo studios months in advance.
2. Kitsuke (Dressing): Getting the child dressed. This is often the hardest part as unfamiliar kimonos can be uncomfortable for toddlers!
3. Shrine Visit (Omairi): Families visit a local shrine or a large famous one like Meiji Jingu. They undergo a formal prayer ritual (Kito).
4. Photography: Professional photos are taken.
5. Family Meal: A celebratory lunch or dinner with grandparents.

How Much Does It Cost? (Realistic Budget)

Shichi-Go-San is known as one of the most expensive events for Japanese families, often costing between ¥50,000 to ¥100,000 ($350 - $700). Here is a breakdown:

• Prayer Fee (Hatsuhoryo): ¥5,000 to ¥20,000. This is the donation given to the shrine for the ritual.
• Kimono Rental & Dressing: ¥20,000 to ¥50,000. Many families rent rather than buy, as children outgrow them quickly.
• Photo Studio Package: ¥30,000+. Professional albums are the norm.
• Family Dinner: ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 per person.

Despite the cost, parents consider it a worthy investment in creating memories of their child's fleeting early years.

Celebrating the Future

Shichi-Go-San is more than just a photo op. It is a reaffirmation of the bond between generations. Grandparents watch their grandchildren, remembering when their own children were that age.

If you are in Japan in mid-November, visit a major shrine. Seeing the proud parents and the slightly uncomfortable but happy children is a heartwarming sight that transcends cultural barriers.