Why Are 3, 5, and 7-Year-Olds Wearing Kimonos in November? (Shichi-Go-San)

The Cutest Parade
Visit a shrine in November, and your heart will melt from the cuteness. You will see tiny boys in samurai-like hakama and little girls in full makeup and kimonos, walking awkwardly with their parents. This is “Shichi-Go-San” (Seven-Five-Three), a rite of passage for children of those specific ages.

Survival Celebration
Why these numbers? In ancient Japan, infant mortality was high. People believed that “Until age 7, children belong to the gods.” Reaching the ages of 3, 5, and 7 were major milestones of survival. 3 is for both genders, 5 is for boys (first hakama), and 7 is for girls (first obi sash).

The Long Candy
Look at their hands. They are all holding a long, thin paper bag. Inside is “Chitose Ame” (Thousand Year Candy). It is a long, thin stick of red and white candy that stretches like mozzarella. It symbolizes “longevity.” The rule is to eat it without breaking it, wishing for a long, thin (steady) life.

The Photo Studio Ordeal
For Japanese parents, this day is a battle. Before the shrine, they spend hours (and hundreds of dollars) at a Photo Studio. Getting a rebellious 3-year-old to wear a tight kimono and smile for the camera is an Olympic sport. If you see exhausted parents at the shrine, show them some sympathy.

Can Tourists Join?
While you can’t officially participate without a reservation, visiting a major shrine (like Meiji Jingu in Tokyo) on a weekend in November is highly recommended. It is the best chance to see authentic, traditional kids’ fashion in real life. Just ask before taking photos!

Mark Your Calendar! (Related Articles)
Shichi-Go-San is the big event in November. But if you miss it, don’t worry. The next crazy family festivals are coming soon!

1. February: Throw Beans at Dad! In early February, there is a fun event where kids throw beans at “demons” (usually their fathers). And then they eat a giant sushi roll in silence?
👉 Why the silence? Check out: “Why Do Japanese People Eat Sushi Silently Facing the Same Direction?”

Why Do Japanese People Eat Sushi Silently Facing the Same Direction?

2. April: The Pink Party After the cold winter, Japan turns pink. It looks like a peaceful nature viewing, but it is actually a massive outdoor drinking party.
👉 Why bring alcohol to the park? Check out: “Why Is ‘Hanami’ (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Actually a Huge Outdoor Drinking Party?”