Shichigosan - The celebration of 7, 5, and 3 year olds in Japan

Girl in kimono

Shichigosan is an annual event held every November in Japan to celebrate the health of children. Learn about its origin and how it is celebrated. 

What is shichigosan

In Japan, you will find children wearing kimonos during ‘Shichigosan’, an annual event for children. 

During Shichigosan,  people pray for the safe growth of children at the ages of 7, 5, and 3 years old. The word "Shicihigosan" means seven, five, three (shichi = seven, go = five, san = three). It's derived from the rituals held in the Imperial Palace during the Heian period and the Kamakura period.

It’s customary for families to take their children, dressed up in kimono,  to the shrine where the local god, Ujigami, is located.  They thank the god  for their successful growth so far and pray for their continued health.

Fully dressed up

When is shichigosan

The day of Shichigosan is November 15, but some people do it from September to December. In addition to shrine visits, many people take commemorative photos at photo studios.

If you see a child in a cute kimono during this period, it would be a nice idea to greet them with a congratulations. 

Boy in kimono