Shichi-Go-San” is an important traditional Japanese event that strengthens family ties. This event, which celebrates the growth of children and wishes for their future health and happiness, is actually imbued with a deep history and meaning.
Few people know the specific origin of why the ages of 3, 5, and 7 are considered special.
In this article, we will unravel the history of Shichi-Go-San from its origins to the present, the meaning behind the rituals for each age group, and how it is celebrated today.
Please read to the end for a better understanding of the Shichi-Go-San and to enrich your family’s celebration of this special day.
History of Shichi-Go-San
Shichi-Go-San has an important meaning for families and children. However, its history and background are not well known.
Let’s take a look at the history of how Shichigosan came to be held.
Heian Period Origins
Shichi-Go-San originated in the aristocratic society of the Heian period in the Heian period (794-1185).
During this period, the development of a child was considered sacred, especially The ages of 3, 5, and 7 were considered important milestones were considered to be important milestones.
The “Hair Placing Ceremony” (at age 3), the “Hakama Clothing Ceremony” (at age 5), and the “Obi Undoing Ceremony” (at age 7) are ceremonies to pray to the gods for the health and growth of the child, and to celebrate their safe and successful growth.
Expansion of the Edo Period
During the Edo period, the custom of Shichi-Go-San spread from samurai society spread from the samurai society to the common people.
Especially after the mid-Edo period, Shichigosan became an established event to celebrate the growth of children. The custom of taking children to shrines to pray for their health and longevity spread, partly because the shogunate encouraged festivities at home.
It was also around this time that the “Chitose Ame” became a part of the celebration and a gift symbolizing longevity.
Transition from the Meiji Era to the Present
During the Meiji period (1868-1912), the custom of Shichi-Go-San spread nationwide and became accepted by the general public. and became accepted by the general public.
Due to the government’s modernization policy, Shichigosan was emphasized as a traditional event and spread through schools and local communities. Today, Shichi-Go-San has become an important family event, and is generally celebrated in a modern way, with photography at a photo studio and kimono rentals.
Shichigosan is celebrated in a flexible manner, with the day and format of the celebration diversifying to suit each family’s lifestyle.
Meaning of each age of Shichi-Go-San
At Shichigosan, ceremonies are held for each of the following ages: 3, 5, and 7 years old. Why are these ages considered important milestones in traditional Japanese culture?
Let’s explore the deeper meaning behind each of these rituals.
3 years old, “Hair Placement Ceremony”
The 3-year-old “Hair Placing Ceremony” is a ceremony in which a child begins to grow his/her hair for the first time. The ceremony is held at the age of three.
During the Heian period (794-1185), it was permitted in aristocratic families to shave the hair of infants and grow it back at the age of three. This was meant to celebrate the successful completion of infancy.
The “Hair Placing Ceremony” was a symbol of parents’ wishes for their children’s health and growth, and it was customary to celebrate this moment with the whole family.
5 years old, “Hakama Kitsuki Ceremony” (ceremony of putting on the hakama)
Hakama-fuku ceremony” for 5 year old boys is a ceremony to put on Hakama for the first time. The ceremony is held at the age of 5.
It has continued since the Heian period (794-1185) and is considered to mark the growth of a child from an infant to a boy. At this moment, one is recognized as a full-fledged member of society.
The Hakama Koromo Ceremony is a symbol of the family’s hopes and wishes for good fortune in the future.
Age 7, “Obi Unwinding Ceremony”.
In the 7-year-old “Obi Unwrapping Ceremony,” a girl fastens a kimono with the same obi as an adult for the first time.
This is an important ceremony that symbolizes new growth as a girl.
The “Obi Unveiling Ceremony” not only celebrates a milestone in growth, but also has an important meaning to show the family and society that the child is ready to assume the role of a woman.
Origin and Meaning of Shichi-Go-San
What deeper meaning is hidden in the Shichi-Go-San ritual? We will also explore the truth behind the stories of its “scary origin” and explain its true meaning.
Purpose of the Shichi-Go-San Ceremony
Shichigosan is a ceremony to celebrate the growth of children and pray for their health and happiness. The ages of 3, 5, and 7 have been considered auspicious odd numbers since ancient times and have been celebrated as milestones of growth.
The rituals performed at these ages reflect the family’s wishes for a successful transition to the next stage of growth.
The relationship between the growth of children and the exorcism of evil spirits
For the Shichi-Go-San Ceremony, to drive away evil spirits and wish for the child’s health and healthy growth. and to wish for the child’s health and healthy growth.
In Japan, certain ages are considered “bad years,” and the Shichigosan is part of this tradition. Families continue to pray for the growth of their children through this ceremony.
Misconceptions and truths about “scary origin”
We sometimes hear rumors that Shichi-Go-San has a “scary origin.
In the past, medical technology and sanitary conditions were immature in Japan, making it difficult for children to grow up safely.
Until the age of seven, they belonged to God.” and young children were still regarded as “unstable beings under God. It is true that against this background, stories of “kamikaze” or “thinning out” arose, sometimes giving a dark image to the Shichi-Go-San.
However, these are circumstances limited to certain times and regions. The actual Shichigosan is a warm event in which families sincerely bless the growth of their children and give thanks to God.
Despite its scary origins, it continues to be an important part of Japanese culture that prays for the happiness of children and celebrates their future with love and affection.
Kimonos and Chitoseame, essential for Shichi-Go-San
Gorgeous kimonos and Chitose-ame are indispensable when celebrating the Shichigosan Festival. Here are the unique meanings of each and their history.
History of Shichi-Go-San Kimono
At Shichigosan, children celebrate by wearing brightly colored kimonos.
This custom began in the Heian period (794-1185) and spread to the common people in the Edo period (1603-1868). The colors and patterns of the kimono express the family’s wishes for the health and happiness of the child.
Colors and patterns symbolizing bravery for boys and beauty for girls are chosen to symbolize bravery for boys and beauty for girls.
As times have changed, kimono designs have diversified. Today, a wide range of traditional and modern designs are chosen to reflect the individuality of the family and the child.
Origin of Chitose Ame
Chitoseame is a candy given to children in celebration of Shichi-Go-San, and its origins date back to the Edo period.
The name “Chitose Ame” means “candy for a thousand years” in Japanese, the name “Chitoseame” means “longevity of 1,000 years. The long and thin shape of the candy symbolizes longevity. The long and slender shape symbolizes “longevity” and the red and white colors symbolize “happiness and health.
The bag in which the candy is placed is decorated with cranes, turtles, pine, bamboo, and plum, and other auspicious patterns, expressing wishes for the happiness of the child.
Shichi-Go-San Photo Culture
The Shichi-Go-San celebration is an important occasion to record the growth of a child. It has been popular since the Showa period (1926-1989), and nowadays various styles of photography are used.
Let’s look at how photography began and how it has evolved into the trend we see today.
The Beginning and Spread of Photography
Shichi-Go-San photography became common during the Showa period (1926-1989).
With the spread of cameras, it became commonplace for families to document their children’s growth, and commemorative photos of the Seven-Five-Three Festival spread as a special event. At that time, it was common for a professional photographer to take pictures at a photo studio, and families often gathered at the photo studio to celebrate their children in their sunny days.
In this way, the Shichi-Go-San photo shoot has taken root as a culture of engraving precious family memories. This special time when the whole family gathers to rejoice together in the growth of the child is a precious opportunity to further strengthen the bonds of kinship.
Recent Photography Trends
Recently, Shichi-Go-San photo shoots have become even more diverse.
In addition to professional photo shoots at photo studios, more and more families are opting for natural snapshots at home or at shrines.
With the spread of smartphones and digital cameras, families are taking pictures easily and sharing them on SNS.
Many families also enjoy themed studio shoots and special costume rentals.
In addition to traditional Japanese attire, the choice of modern styles, such as dresses and suits, allows for a variety of photography styles that reflect the family’s interests and the children’s personalities.
Shichigosan and Religion
The Shichi-Go-San Ceremony, originally started as a Shinto custom from a Shinto custom.
It is held as an event to visit shrines to thank God for the growth of the child and to pray for the child’s future health and happiness. In Shinto, it is an important ceremony to watch over the child’s safe upbringing and to seek blessings from the gods.
On the other hand, Shintoism and Buddhism have coexisted in Japan throughout its long history. Therefore, the celebration of Shichi-Go-San may also be held at a Buddhist temple. This reflects the different religious backgrounds of different regions and families and demonstrates cultural diversity.
In recent years, there have also been cases of Christian families celebrating Shichigosan.
Shichigosan is widely accepted as a celebration of family growth and bonding that transcends religion, including prayers and blessings at church.
Thus, Shichi-Go-San is a Japanese cultural event that incorporates elements of Shintoism, Buddhism, and Christianity, and is rooted in the importance of the healthy growth of the child and the bonds of family. The Shichi-Go-San is a Japanese cultural event that is rooted in the importance of children’s healthy growth and family ties.
Shichigosan in the Modern Era and the Future
Shichigosan is a special event that has evolved with the times but is still deeply rooted in the hearts of families.
Today, in addition to prayers at shrines, there are more free and unique ways to celebrate, such as family parties at home and themed studio shoots. It is only in this day and age that children can be seen dressed up in dresses and suits, without being limited to traditional Japanese attire.
Furthermore, it has become routine to share family joy with the world instantly by sharing photos taken with smartphones on the spot on social networking sites. The Shichi-Go-San will evolve into a more diverse and creative style. The Shichi-Go-San will continue to evolve into a diverse and creative style.
New ideas are constantly emerging, such as celebrating a special Shichi-Go-San during a family vacation or receiving prayers online. As the birthrate declines, the original celebrations by each community and family should become increasingly unique and individualized. Regardless of the form it takes, the Shichi-Go-San will remain an important event that strengthens family ties and celebrates the growth of children from the heart.
Future Shichigosan will also be an opportunity for families to color this precious moment and carve new memories. We look forward to watching its evolution together and to seeing what new stories will emerge.
summary
七五三は、日本の伝統と家族の絆を大切にする行事です。
Knowing the history and meaning of this event will make your family celebration even more profound. Why not enjoy this moment of celebrating your child’s growth together as a family and create wonderful memories?
We invite you to experience the charm of the Shichi-Go-San on your next Shichi-Go-San. Through this new style of Shichi-Go-San, a fusion of tradition and modernity, we believe you will have a special time with your family.
Motenas Japan offers a variety of programs to experience Japanese culture. Please consider these special experiences for your family to enjoy together.
For more information, please contact us .
30代女性ライター。キャンピングカーで家族と日本各地を巡る旅を楽しんでいます。
教員としての経験を活かし、わかりやすく伝えることを心がけています。
日本の文化や魅力を、もっと身近に感じてもらえるよう丁寧に綴っていきます。
