A complete guide to Shichi-Go-San: from visiting the shrine to choosing outfits and taking photos
As the hot summer comes to an end, the autumn breeze of September comes into play.
Meanwhile, for families with children aged 7, 5, and 3, autumn traditions...
Preparations for the traditional Japanese event " Shichi-Go-San " begin.
I would like to explain about Shichi -Go-San , an important event for children that only takes place in that year.
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3. Color your Shichi-Go-San celebration with the right outfit : Japanese or Western clothing?
4. Recording Shichi-Go-San through photography : Studio photography vs. on-site photography
5. Create a Shichi-Go-San look with hairstyles and makeup – Get professional advice
6. Renting vs. Purchasing Shichi-Go-San Costumes : Which is More Cost-Effective?
7. Average amount of money and Shichi-Go-San gifts - How to choose the amount and gift
8. Preparation for prayer and Shichi-Go-San essentials - What you need to bring on the day
9. The origin and enjoyment of Shichigosan Sentose Ame ~Traditional celebratory item~
10. How to make your Shichi-Go-San dinner party a success : Tips for choosing a restaurant
What is Shichi-Go-San? Everything you need to know about it, from its origins and history to the present day
Origin and History
Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese event that celebrates the growth of children, and is held at the milestone ages of 3, 5, and 7 .
The history of this event dates back to the Heian period, and its roots are said to be in the "Kamioki no Gi" (hair-laying ceremony) and "Hakama-gi no Gi" (hakama-wearing ceremony) that were performed among aristocrats at the time.
Especially during the Edo period, it spread among samurai families and took on the form we see today.
Nowadays, November 15th is celebrated as Shichi-Go-San Day, and it is common for families to visit a shrine and pray for the health and growth of their children .
Recently, commemorative photos have been taken at a photo studio, and the event has become an important family event. This event, which combines Japanese tradition and modern culture, is still cherished in many households today.
A complete guide to choosing the best day and shrine to celebrate Shichi-Go-San
Choosing a shrine for celebrations
The most well-known day for the Shichi-Go-San celebration is November 15th. This day is called "Oni-yado-bi" in the old calendar, and has been considered a good day for events other than weddings.
When choosing a shrine, it is common to first choose the local shrine where the local guardian deity is enshrined , but there are also many families who wish to have prayers offered at a famous shrine.
Prayers at historically important shrines such as Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple are especially popular in urban areas.
However, these shrines can get very busy, so advance reservations are often required, so planning ahead is important. On the day, you can spend time with the whole family celebrating your child's growth in a solemn atmosphere, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The definitive guide to what to wear for Shichi-Go-San for parents and children | Essential rules and points to keep in mind
Parent and child clothing and precautions
At Shichi-Go-San, choosing the right attire for both parents and children is extremely important, and it is important to dress appropriately for the occasion. Children often wear traditional kimonos, with boys typically wearing haori and hakama, and girls typically wearing kimonos with a hitofuku and obi .
As for the parents, it is common for mothers to choose a formal kimono or a chic, elegant dress , while a dark suit is recommended for fathers.
Particular attention should be paid to colors that are not too flashy and to balance them with the child's outfit .
Matching the parents' outfits with the children's will not only create a beautiful family photo overall, but will also make a good impression when you visit the shrine for prayers. The key to success is to successfully combine tradition with modern elegance.
The deciding factor for Shichi-Go-San photo shoots | How to choose the right studio and on-site photoshoot
How to choose the right studio and on-site photography service
Shichi-Go-San photo shoots are an important event for families to record special moments.
Studio shoots are done in perfect lighting and backgrounds prepared by professional photographers, so you can expect high-quality photos .
On the other hand, the appeal of on-site photography is that you can capture relaxed expressions in natural environments such as your home, a park, or a shrine.
When choosing, it is important to first check word-of-mouth and reviews and choose a trustworthy photographer and studio.
You may also want to consider package plans that include costume rental and makeup services.
The key to success is to book early and plan your day so that preparations go smoothly. Choose the photography method that best suits your family's style and preferences.
Complete Guide to Shichi-Go-San Hairstyles and Makeup | Professional Style Advice
Hair and makeup style advice
The hairstyle and makeup for Shichi-Go-San are important elements in bringing out the cuteness of your child to the fullest.
For girls, traditional Japanese hairstyles and gorgeous updos are popular, with hair accessories being a key element in enhancing the style .
Recently, casual hairstyles that go well with Western clothing have become more common, and accessories such as flower crowns are sometimes used to create a cute look .
For boys, stylish hairstyles lightly set with hair styling products are the norm, but simple, understated hairstyles that match Japanese clothing are also popular.
Regarding makeup, natural makeup is recommended for girls,
Use subtle lip and blush to highlight your child's pure cuteness.
If you are going to hire a professional, it is important to clearly communicate the style you want in advance.
Rehearse and plan ahead to ensure everything goes smoothly on the day.
Should you rent or buy your Shichi-Go-San costume? A comprehensive comparison guide for success
Should I rent or buy costumes?
When choosing outfits for Shichi-Go-San, many people struggle with the decision of whether to rent or buy.
The advantage of renting is that you can easily try out kimonos from the latest designs and popular brands .
It also eliminates the need for cleaning and storage, making it convenient for busy families.
On the other hand, the advantage of buying it is that you can keep it as a family memento .
Buying can be an economical option, especially if it can be shared among siblings later on or worn again on special occasions.
In terms of cost, renting is often cheaper than buying, but when you consider the satisfaction you would get from buying one and the value it would have as family memories, which option is best depends on your family's needs. It's important to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option and make the best choice.
The right answer to Shichi-Go-San celebration money and gifts: Prices and surprisingly well-received ideas
Congratulatory money and delightful ideas
When choosing a gift for Shichi-Go-San, it can be difficult to decide how much money or what to give. For relatives, the most common amount is around 5,000 to 10,000 yen.
While toys and books are popular gifts that children love, what is surprisingly popular are memorable photo albums and original picture books . Personalized items will be especially special for children.
Also, since Shichi-Go-San is an event celebrated by the whole family, it's a good idea to support the cost of taking family photos . When choosing a gift or monetary donation, it's a good idea to think of something that the child will enjoy and that will be a memorable experience.
A complete guide to preparing for Shichi-Go-San prayers: from choosing a shrine to writing thank-you letters
Preparing for prayer
The Shichi-Go-San prayer is an important ceremony in which we thank the gods for the child's growth and pray for their future health and happiness.
First, when choosing a shrine to receive prayers at, the most common is a shrine dedicated to the local guardian deity , but many families also choose popular, well-known shrines.
Depending on the shrine, prayer times may vary or reservations may be required, so it is important to check in advance .
It is considered good manners to present a letter of thanks or a thank you note when praying, but letters of thanks in particular will come across as more polite if they are handwritten and written with sincerity.
After the prayer, it is recommended to take photos and have a meal together as a family to create fond memories . Preparations for the prayer will go smoothly if the whole family works together in a planned manner on the day.
Shichi-Go-San Chitose Ame and Traditional Costumes: A Complete Guide to the History and How to Enjoy It
Chitose Ame and Traditional Costumes
Chitose-ame is a symbolic sweet for Shichi-Go-San, and its long, thin shape represents prayers for the longevity and health of children .
The candy comes in bright red and white wrappers and is often distributed to children after prayers at shrines.
Children who receive Chitose Ame will understand its historical background and will remember the celebration as something even more special.
Traditional clothing such as kimono and haori hakama are also essential items for Shichi-Go-San.
By wearing these costumes, children can experience Japanese traditions firsthand and share the culture with the whole family.
As a way to enjoy Shichi-Go-San, the combination of Chitose-ame and traditional costumes will provide a special experience that is unique to Shichi-Go-San and create a memorable day .
How to Make Your Shichi-Go-San Dinner Party a Success | Recommended Restaurants and How to Choose the Best Menu
Recommended dinner parties
The Shichi-Go-San dinner party is an important event where the whole family can celebrate their children's growth and have a fun time together.
When choosing a venue for a dinner party, restaurants that are safe for children and restaurants that serve Japanese cuisine are popular. Restaurants that offer private rooms are especially recommended, as they allow families to relax and enjoy a meal together .
Also, when choosing a menu, combining both children's favorites and authentic Japanese cuisine that adults can enjoy will ensure everyone is satisfied.
The key to a successful Shichi-Go-San dinner is to let the restaurant know in advance how many children you will have and their preferences so they can prepare a special menu. This will ensure everyone has a great time and your Shichi-Go-San dinner will be a wonderful memory.
The Future of Shichi-Go-San Ceremony Culture: How to Connect with the Next Generation by Blending Tradition and Modernity
Shichi-Go-San Festival for the Next Generation
Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese event that has been passed down since ancient times, and its historical background is fused with modern culture. This event is not only a celebration of a child's growth, but also a precious opportunity for families to come together and pass on Japanese culture to the next generation .
Although the format and celebration of Shichi-Go-San is changing in modern society, its essential meaning remains the same. In particular, Shichi-Go-San will continue to exist, as people seek out new ways to celebrate that suit their families' lifestyles while respecting local traditions.
This event is becoming increasingly important for children as well, as it provides an opportunity for them to learn about their roots and experience traditions.
Through Shichi-Go-San, we are expected to play an important role in passing on Japan's rich culture to the next generation and connecting it to the future .
Summary | A complete guide to fully understanding and enjoying the Shichi-Go-San festival culture
Summary | Understanding Shichi-Go-San
Shichi-Go-San is not just an event to celebrate children's growth,
It plays an important role in passing on Japanese history and culture to future generations .
Through this article, we hope you have gained a deeper understanding of the overall picture of Shichi-Go-San, including its origins and history, as well as how it is celebrated today.
We also provided information on specific preparations, such as choosing a shrine, what parents and children should wear, taking photos, and planning a dinner party.
Shichi-Go-San is a precious opportunity for families to experience traditional Japanese culture and pass it on to the next generation . Please use this article as a reference and have a wonderful Shichi-Go-San day.
