As your child approaches the age for Shichi-Go-San, you might find yourself wondering, “What exactly is this celebration about?”
Although Shichi-Go-San has been cherished in Japan for centuries, many people are not fully familiar with its origins or history.
This article offers a simple guide for anyone curious about the meaning of Shichi-Go-San, why it is traditionally observed on November 15, and how families celebrate it today.
By the end, you’ll feel more connected to the background of this festival—making your shrine visit or photo session an even more memorable experience.
What is Shichi-Go-San?
Shichi-Go-San (literally “Seven-Five-Three”) is a traditional Japanese celebration that honors children’s growth. Traditionally, three-year-old girls, five-year-old boys, and seven-year-old girls visit a Shinto shrine on November 15 to give thanks for their healthy development and to pray for continued well-being.
In recent years, it has also become common for boys to celebrate at age three. Families no longer limit the visit to November 15; many now choose an auspicious day or a convenient weekend between September and November.
Depending on the region or family tradition, some may also celebrate five-year-old girls or seven-year-old boys.
Although the original custom was to visit the local guardian deity (ujigami-sama), many families today choose larger or well-known shrines. Interestingly, some Christian churches in Japan also offer Shichi-Go-San blessings to reflect modern family needs.
History and Origins of Shichi-Go-San
The origins of Shichi-Go-San can be traced back to the Heian period (794–1185), when noble families held rites of passage to mark important stages of a child’s growth. Three such rituals formed the basis of today’s celebration: Kamioki (letting a child’s hair grow at age three), Hakamagi (a boy’s first time wearing formal hakama trousers at age five), and Obitoki (a girl’s first time wearing an obi sash at age seven).
During the Edo period (1603–1868), Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi held the Kamioki ceremony for his three-year-old son, Tokumatsu, on November 15. This date later became established as the traditional day for Shichi-Go-San, spreading from the samurai class to the wider public.
In earlier times, child mortality was high, and there was even a saying, “Children up to seven belong to the gods.” These milestones were therefore treated with deep importance. Today, they live on in the form of Shichi-Go-San, a vibrant tradition celebrated with festive attire and family prayers for children’s healthy growth.
Age Three (Boys and Girls): Kamioki (Hair-Growing Ceremony)
Origins
In the Heian period (794–1185), it was customary to shave a baby’s head on the seventh day after birth and keep the child’s head shaved until the age of three. This was believed to protect against illness and to encourage healthy hair growth.
At age three, families held the Kamioki ceremony, in which white silk threads or cotton were placed on the child’s head as a prayer for long life and prosperity.
Attire
For three-year-old girls, it is common to wear a small kimono called mitsumi with a sleeveless padded vest known as hifu. Since this style is tied with simple cords rather than a formal obi sash, it is comfortable, easy to move in, and less likely to come undone.
Boys may also wear a haori jacket and hakama trousers, but in recent years many families choose the same hifu style as girls, which looks both charming and practical. If a boy will wear a formal haori and hakama at age five, the hifu outfit at age three is often preferred to highlight his youthful cuteness.
▶ For more details about the 3-year-old Shichi-Go-San, please see here.
Shichi-Go-San at Age Three: A Complete Guide to Outfits, Photos, and the Day’s Events
Age Five (Boys): Hakamagi (First Hakama Ceremony)
Origins
At the age of five, boys take part in the Hakamagi ceremony. This marks the first time they wear formal hakama trousers. In the ritual, the boy was placed standing on a goban (a Go board) as a symbolic gesture, with prayers that he would one day “master the four directions.”
Through this rite of passage, boys were recognized as having grown from young children into youth.
Attire
Traditionally, five-year-old boys wear a haori jacket and hakama trousers. The haori often features bold motifs such as hawks or samurai helmets, symbols of strength and courage. With the hakama, accessories like a short ceremonial sword (tantō) or a folding fan (suehiro) are carried.
This dignified and stately appearance is one of the most iconic sights of Shichi-Go-San.
▶ For details about the 5-year-old Shichi-Go-San, please see here
Complete Guide to 5-Year-Old Shichi-Go-San｜Hakama, Photography, and How to Enjoy the Day
Age Seven (Girls): Obitoki (First Obi Ceremony)
Origins
At the age of seven, girls traditionally took part in the Obitoki (also called Himotoki) ceremony, marking their transition to wearing an adult-style obi sash.
Until then, young girls wore children’s kimono fastened with simple cords. From age seven, these cords were replaced with a formal obi, signifying maturity and recognition as a young lady.
This rite of passage was considered an important milestone in acknowledging a girl as more independent and grown.
Attire
At age seven, girls wear a more formal child-sized kimono called yotsumi. The obi is usually a tsukuri-obi (a pre-tied sash) that is easier to fasten, and the outfit is completed with traditional accessories such as a decorative purse (hakoseko), a folding fan, zōri sandals, and hair ornaments.
This attire, suited for the Obitoki ceremony, blends the innocence of childhood with a graceful, more mature look.
▶ For details about the 7-year-old Shichi-Go-San, please see here
Complete Guide to 7-Year-Old Shichi-Go-San｜Kimono, Obi, Photography, and How to Enjoy the Day
In the past, child mortality was high in Japan, and there was even a saying that “Children up to seven belong to the gods.”
Reaching the age of seven therefore carried great significance, as it marked the point when a child was regarded as a full member of society, both socially and spiritually.
Parents’ Attire | How to Complement Your Child’s Festive Look
Shichi-Go-San is a celebration where the child is the star. Parents and family members should avoid overly showy outfits and instead choose attire that complements the child’s kimono or festive clothing.
Because the occasion involves visiting a shrine and often receiving a blessing, formal or semi-formal clothing is the safest choice for family members.
When siblings are also dressed neatly, family photos look more balanced and cohesive.
That said, “formal” does not necessarily mean overly strict — a collared shirt with a cardigan and clean trousers, for example, is perfectly suitable.
Here we will give a brief overview of attire for mothers, fathers, grandparents, and siblings.
Mother’s Attire (Kimono or Western Dress)
For Shichi-Go-San, mothers may choose either a kimono or Western-style clothing, but the key is to keep the outfit more understated than the child’s. One rule of thumb is to avoid pairing a child in Western dress with a mother in kimono, as it can feel unbalanced. On the other hand, a child in kimono with a mother in Western attire is perfectly acceptable.
When wearing kimono, soft and subtle colors are recommended, such as a hōmongi (visiting kimono) or tsukesage (formal kimono with modest patterns), chosen to harmonize with the child’s outfit.
Father’s Attire (Suit or Kimono)
For fathers, the basic rule is to match the mother’s outfit while keeping the child as the main focus. If the child’s clothing is bright and colorful, parents should opt for more subdued tones such as navy or black.
There are three main choices for fathers: a suit, semi-formal attire, or traditional Japanese wear. With a suit, a dark color paired with a white or light-colored shirt is the safest option. Semi-formal attire is chosen when greater formality is desired. Traditional kimono has also become popular in recent years; a plain or striped kimono with a haori jacket provides a dignified appearance. However, colored montsuki (crested kimono) should be avoided, as it can appear more formal than the child’s attire.
Attire for Grandparents and Siblings
Shichi-Go-San is a celebration that involves visiting a Shinto shrine for prayers and blessings. For such a formal occasion, grandparents and siblings should also dress in a way that highlights the child while maintaining a sense of dignity. This ensures that in photos, the entire family appears harmonious and well-coordinated.
Semi-formal attire is generally appropriate, with an emphasis on calm colors and a clean, neat appearance.
Grandmother’s Attire
Elegant and refined outfits suit grandmothers well. For kimono, a plain-colored iromuji or a subdued Edo komon is appropriate, while for Western attire, a navy or gray ceremonial suit is recommended. Accessories such as pearls and a tasteful handbag add refinement, and comfortable shoes ensure a relaxed day. As shown in the example, even a simple outfit can feel more festive with the right accessories.
Grandfather’s Attire
For grandfathers, a dark suit in navy or charcoal gray is the standard. A crisp white shirt with a modest tie and polished leather shoes completes the look. For greater formality, a crested kimono with haori and hakama is also an option. Such calm and dignified attire conveys a reassuring presence as they watch over their grandchild.
Siblings’ Attire
Since siblings are often included in Shichi-Go-San family photos, it is important that their outfits complement the main child while maintaining overall harmony. Cleanliness and a neat appearance are the key points to keep in mind.
For toddlers, comfort and ease of movement come first. A formal-style set or a simple dress paired with white socks and shoes in subdued tones creates a polished look. Adding a hair accessory or a small corsage can bring a festive touch.
For elementary school children, wearing a school uniform is the safest choice. If there is no uniform, a collared shirt with a jacket works well. Girls can wear a simple dress with a cardigan for seasonal style, while boys look smart in a navy or gray jacket with basic trousers.
For middle schoolers and older, attire should lean closer to adult formal wear. Boys can wear a suit or blazer, and girls can choose a dress or set-up in modest colors. Avoid flashy patterns or bright tones, as simple and refined outfits help highlight the child who is the true focus of Shichi-Go-San.
Why November 15 Became the Day of Shichi-Go-San
Shichi-Go-San is most closely associated with November 15, but there are several reasons why this date was chosen.
One account traces it back to the Edo period, when Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi held the Kamioki (Hair-Growing Ceremony) for his son Tokumatsu on November 15. This practice spread through the samurai class and eventually became established among common people.
In the old lunar calendar, November was the month of harvest thanksgiving to the gods, and the 15th day, being a full moon, was considered especially auspicious.
According to the traditional astrological system known as the nijūhasshuku (Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions), November 15 also fell on Kishuku-nichi (“Day of the Demon’s Lodging”), a day believed to be free from evil spirits.
Additionally, adding the numbers seven, five, and three together equals fifteen, which gave the date symbolic significance as well.
With all these overlapping reasons, November 15 became firmly associated with Shichi-Go-San. Today, however, many families choose a weekend or another auspicious day in October or November to avoid crowds and fit better with their schedules.
The Connection Between Shichi-Go-San and Miyamairi
Alongside Shichi-Go-San, another important custom for children’s growth is Miyamairi, the first shrine visit of a newborn. In this tradition, the baby is taken to a Shinto shrine to present the new life to the local guardian deity (ujigami-sama) and to pray for safe and healthy growth.
Miyamairi is usually performed around 30 days after birth, though in some regions boys are taken on the 31st day and girls on the 32nd. In earlier times, because the mother was still considered to be in a period of ritual impurity (imi), the grandmother or a midwife would often carry the baby instead. Even today, some regions observe variations such as a 75-day or 100-day visit.
Traditionally, families visited their local shrine, but nowadays many choose well-known shrines, often combining the ritual with professional photography. When requesting a blessing, it is customary to offer a donation in a ceremonial envelope labeled Gohatsuho-ryō or O-tamagushi-ryō.
Together with Shichi-Go-San and the Coming-of-Age Ceremony (Seijin-shiki), Miyamairi reflects Japan’s cultural tradition of celebrating a child’s growth at important milestones. Expressing gratitude and prayers to the gods at each stage has always been a timeless expression of parental love.
The Modern Form of Shichi-Go-San
Traditionally, Shichi-Go-San was celebrated on November 15, but today many families choose a date between October and November that best fits their schedule and their child’s health.
Some visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, while others take professional photos in advance and focus solely on the shrine visit on the day itself. In this way, the celebration style has become much more flexible.
Clothing options have also expanded compared to the past. Dressing a child in traditional kimono creates a classic and elegant look, while Western-style outfits are a practical choice for comfort and ease of movement. Both are equally meaningful, as what matters most is celebrating the child’s growth and cherishing the day together as a family.
While traditional practice emphasized visiting the local guardian deity (ujigami-sama), many families today choose well-known shrines, combining worship with memory-making. There is no single “correct” way — as long as the celebration is carried out with love for the child, Shichi-Go-San remains a treasured milestone.
Though its form has changed over time, the heart of Shichi-Go-San has always stayed the same: parents’ wishes for the healthy growth of their children. What is most important is to share that feeling as a family and create a joyful day full of smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1. Can only one child participate, or must siblings be included together?**
A. It is perfectly fine to celebrate with just one child. Many families also celebrate siblings together. What matters to the gods is not age or order, but the heartfelt gratitude for a child’s healthy growth.
**Q2. Is it okay to visit the shrine in the afternoon?**
A. Yes. In the past, it was customary to go in the morning, but today families often choose the afternoon based on their schedule and the child’s condition. The important thing is to visit with sincerity.
**Q3. Does Shichi-Go-San have to be on November 15?**
A. Traditionally, November 15 is the official date, but nowadays most families choose an auspicious day or weekend in October or November that works best for them.
**Q4. Should Shichi-Go-San be celebrated by “counted age” or actual age?**
A. Either is acceptable, depending on local customs or family preference. In recent years, more families have chosen the actual age since it is easier to understand.
**Q5. Is it acceptable for children to wear Western-style clothing instead of kimono?**
A. Yes. Some children wear suits or dresses, while kimono remain popular for their sense of tradition and elegance in photos. What matters most is the feeling of celebration for the child’s growth.
**Q6. Which shrine should we visit for Shichi-Go-San?**
A. Traditionally, families visit their local guardian deity (ujigami-sama), but many now choose a famous shrine or one that offers photography services. Either choice is perfectly fine.
**Q7. How much is the typical offering (hatsuho-ryō)?**
A. The amount varies by shrine, but it is usually between 5,000 and 10,000 yen. The donation is placed in a ceremonial envelope labeled Gohatsuho-ryō or O-tamagushi-ryō.
Summary
Shichi-Go-San is a cherished tradition passed down through generations to give thanks for a child’s growth and to pray for their future happiness.
Originating from rites of passage in the Heian period and spreading more widely in the Edo period, it is now celebrated by families all across Japan.
Over time, customs have become more flexible — families can freely choose the date of the visit or the style of clothing.
Yet one thing remains unchanged: the parents’ heartfelt feelings of gratitude — “Thank you for growing up healthy so far” — and their hopes — “May you continue to thrive.”
Shichi-Go-San is a precious milestone that gives shape to these emotions. May the day, spent watching over your child in their festive attire, become a warm and unforgettable memory for your whole family.
✿Column: Fumi’s Kimono Diary ✿
The other day, I had the chance to attend a Shichi-Go-San photo session.
The three-year-old girl wore a tiny mitsumi kimono with a sleeveless hifu vest. Without an obi sash, her outfit looked adorably childlike, and with every step, the hem of her kimono swayed gently.
The five-year-old boy, dressed in a haori and hakama, looked stiff with nervousness at first. But when he opened his folding fan in front of the camera, his expression suddenly changed into one of pride.
The seven-year-old girl wore a yotsumi kimono with an obi tied at the back. Watching her gaze at her reflection in the mirror, she seemed like a little lady already.
In the past, when people used to say “Children up to seven belong to the gods,” reaching these ages was never taken for granted. Today, we may think of healthy growth as natural, but seeing children in their festive kimono still fills one’s heart with gratitude: “Thank you for growing this far.”
Shichi-Go-San is a day that stays in the memory of both parents and children alike. To witness kimono adorning such milestones, and to share that joy as a family, is truly a blessing.
