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Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3 Festival)
A blessing for children aged 7, 5, and 3 — celebrating their growth and praying for their future.
November 15
Why It Matters
Shichi-Go-San is a traditional rite of passage for children who have reached ages 7 (girls), 5 (boys), and 3 (both). Historically, child mortality was high, and reaching these ages was a cause for celebration and prayer.
How It Is Observed
Children in traditional kimono visit Shinto shrines with family, receive blessings from priests, are given chitose-ame (thousand year candy) in long bags symbolizing longevity, family photos at the shrine.