Shichi Go San

 

Shichi go san is the Japanese festival that celebrates children at the ages of seven, five, and three. It is celebrated every November, especially on November 15th. Because it is not a national holiday, families celebrate in November when their schedules allow, not only on the 15th. This celebration honors the growth and well being of 7 and 3 year old girls, and 5 and sometimes 3 year old boys. 

Shichi go san dates back to the Heian era (794-1185), when the aristocracy celebrated children's growth. Later, it spread to other social classes. In feudal times, high infant mortality made reaching the ages of seven, five, and three, significant milestones. 

In modern times, families celebrate by visiting the shrines in formal attire, and taking professional photographs. Some families purchase good luck amulets and write wishes on ema plaques. Afterwards, it is common to eat a meal at a restaurant or at home. It is also common to give chitose ame, also known as thousand year candy, to celebrate the growth of the child. This hard candy is thin and 15 inches long to represent the wish for a long, healthy life, and comes in red and white to symbolize joy and purity. The candy comes in a decorative bag with symbols of longevity, like cranes and turtles. 

Isn't this a wonderful way to celebrate children?