When is Shichi-Go-San? Origin and Celebration Timing

Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese event centered around November 15th, celebrating the growth of children. Children aged 3, 5, and 7 visit a shrine to give thanks for their growth so far and pray for their continued healthy growth. This event has a different meaning for each age, and is an important milestone for families.

Why Shichi-Go-San is celebrated on November 15th

The reason why Shichigosan is celebrated on November 15th is said to be because it was originally based on the lunar calendar. November is the time when the harvest ends, and it is a time to give thanks to nature and celebrate the beginning of a new season. It is also said that the 15th was chosen as the day for the Shichigosan celebration because it is close to the full moon and is considered an auspicious day.

Differences between celebrations for boys and girls

Shichi-Go-San celebrates different milestones depending on gender and age.

  • Age 3 : A ceremony called "Kamioki" is held for both boys and girls. It is said that it was customary to start growing hair at this age.
  • Age 5 : Boys wear hakama for the first time in a ceremony called "Hakamagi," celebrating their strength and growth.
  • Age 7 : Girls tie their obi for the first time in a ceremony called "Obitoki," which marks a turning point in their growth and approach to adulthood.

Be flexible about celebration dates

Nowadays, celebrations are not necessarily limited to November 15th, but are held according to the convenience of the family. Many families hold the celebration on weekends or public holidays between October and November, and it is common for families to celebrate Shichi-Go-San in various ways, such as with family photos and meals with relatives.

Let's use furoshiki and fukusa for Shichi-Go-San celebrations.

For Shichi-Go-San celebrations, wrapping gifts and celebratory envelopes in furoshiki or fukusa is a good way to do so. Wrapping them in a furoshiki makes them feel more special, and using a fukusa to hand over the celebratory envelope subtly teaches children traditional etiquette. Next, we will introduce some ideas for wrapping gifts in furoshiki that are perfect for Shichi-Go-San.

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