---
title: Shichi-Go-San (七五三) – Japan’s Traditional Rite of Passage for Children
description: Learn about 七五三 in Japan—Shichi-Go-San, a traditional celebration for children’s growth with shrine visits, kimono, and family blessings.
image: https://www.group-shinka.com/hubfs/image6-Oct-20-2025-08-49-10-3220-AM.png
---

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Shichi-Go-San (七五三) – Japan’s Traditional Rite of Passage for Children

# Shichi-Go-San (七五三) – Japan’s Traditional Rite of Passage for Children

更新日：2025年11月10日

![](https://www.group-shinka.com/hubfs/image6-Oct-20-2025-08-49-10-3220-AM.png)

 Contents

## **What is Shichi-Go-San?**

![Shichi-Go-San](https://www.group-shinka.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image1-Oct-20-2025-08-49-33-4454-AM.png?width=1000&height=667&name=image1-Oct-20-2025-08-49-33-4454-AM.png)

**Shichi-Go-San** is not a national holiday, but it’s widely observed across Japan. Rooted in **Shinto tradition**, it celebrates important **milestones in a child’s life:**

- **Three years old (san)** – hair growing ceremony for boys and girls
- **Five years old (go)** – boys wear hakama for the first time
- **Seven years old (shichi)** – girls start wearing obi with kimono

The festival dates back to the **Heian period (794–1185)** and has evolved into a modern mix of **religious practice, cultural pride,** and **family celebration.**

## **How Do Families Celebrate Shichi-Go-San?**

![Families Celebrate Shichi-Go-San](https://www.group-shinka.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image3-Oct-20-2025-08-50-00-2133-AM.png?width=1020&height=679&name=image3-Oct-20-2025-08-50-00-2133-AM.png)

- **Shrine Visits (参拝 / Sanpai):** Families take children to **Shinto shrines**, such as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, for **prayers and blessings.**
- **Traditional Dress:** Children wear **kimono**, hakama, or modern-style formal wear.
- **Photo Sessions:** Many families book **professional photographers** to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
- **Chitose Ame (千歳飴):** Children receive long, thin **“thousand-year candy”** symbolizing healthy growth and longevity.
- **Family Gatherings:** After shrine visits, families often enjoy a meal together or visit photo studios for portraits.

## **When is Shichi-Go-San Celebrated?**

Although **November 15** is the official date, celebrations often take place on **weekends throughout November** to accommodate work and school schedules. It also coincides with **autumn foliage**, making it a beautiful season for photos.

## **Best Places to Experience Shichi-Go-San in Japan**

 

![Meiji Jingu Shrine ](https://www.group-shinka.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image5-Oct-20-2025-08-50-26-7153-AM.png?width=612&height=408&name=image5-Oct-20-2025-08-50-26-7153-AM.png)

If you're in Japan in **November**, you can witness this charming festival at:

**Meiji Jingu Shrine** (Tokyo)

**Sumiyoshi Taisha** (Osaka)

**Fushimi Inari Taisha** (Kyoto)

**Local shrines nationwide**

You’ll see kids in elaborate kimono, proud parents, and a festive, respectful atmosphere.

## **Why It Matters**

Shichi-Go-San isn’t just a cute photo opportunity—it’s a deep-rooted cultural practice celebrating **life, tradition, and family**. It blends **history, religion, and beauty**, making it a unique window into **Japanese values.**

## **Useful travel tips and advices for visitors**

![travel tips](https://www.group-shinka.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image2-Oct-20-2025-08-50-54-3399-AM.png?width=612&height=408&name=image2-Oct-20-2025-08-50-54-3399-AM.png)

Here are some useful travel tips and advice for visitors who want to experience Shichi-Go-San (七五三) in Japan:

1. **Visit in Early to Mid-November**

While the official date is November 15, families often celebrate on weekends throughout early to mid-November.

This also coincides with autumn foliage season, so it’s a perfect time for sightseeing and photography.

1. **Go to Major Shrines for the Best Experience**

Visit large shrines where many families gather:

- **Meiji Jingu** (Tokyo)
- **Fushimi Inari Taisha** (Kyoto)
- **Sumiyoshi Taisha** (Osaka)

These locations offer beautiful backgrounds, traditional rituals, and a festive atmosphere.

1. **Be Respectful When Taking Photos**

- You’ll see many children in traditional kimonos—it’s tempting to take pictures, but **ask for permission** if the children are close or recognizable.
- Avoid interfering with their **private family moments** or religious rituals.

1. **You Can Rent a Kimono Too**

- Travelers can rent traditional Japanese clothing and join in the cultural spirit—especially in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo.
- Just be mindful not to **imitate children's attire** specifically for Shichi-Go-San, as it may seem culturally insensitive.

1. **Observe Shrine Etiquette**

- Bow at the torii gate before entering.
- Purify hands and mouth at the **temizuya** (water basin).
- When offering prayers: **bow twice, clap twice, bow once.**

1. **Buy Chitose Ame as a Souvenir**

- "Chitose ame" (thousand-year candy) symbolizes long life and is sold in colorful bags decorated with cranes and turtles.
- These make great cultural gifts and are widely available at shrines during this season.

1. **Plan Around Crowds**

- Major shrines get crowded during this time—especially on weekends.
- Arrive **early in the day** or visit **smaller local shrines** for a quieter experience.

1. **Dress for Autumn Weather**

- November weather in Japan is generally mild and dry.
- Bring light layers, a scarf, and comfortable shoes for walking and shrine grounds.

## **Summary**

![Shichi-Go-San](https://www.group-shinka.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image4-Oct-20-2025-08-51-23-4499-AM.png?width=612&height=392&name=image4-Oct-20-2025-08-51-23-4499-AM.png)

**Shichi-Go-San (七五三)** is a cherished Japanese tradition celebrated on **November 15**, honoring the healthy growth of children—specifically **three- and seven-year-old girls** and **three- and five-year-old boys**. On this day, families dress their children in elegant kimonos, visit Shinto shrines to receive blessings, and celebrate with symbolic treats like *chitose ame* (thousand-year candy), representing long life and good fortune.

This vibrant rite of passage beautifully blends **cultural heritage**, **religious practice**, and **family pride**, making it one of Japan’s most heartfelt and photogenic seasonal celebrations.

If you're interested in traveling to Japan, please feel free to contact us.

### Coming Nov 2025 – Osaka Namba’s Newest Stay! Close to USJ & Expo 2025.

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