A complete guide to Okuizome (100th day celebration)

A ceremony full of love

Wishing for the baby's healthy growth

What is Okuizome?

The differences and meanings of Hashisore, Maohajime and Hakatame

The truth behind the love ritual that has continued since the Heian period

Okuizome is a ceremony to celebrate the first meal.

This is done when the baby is 100 days old.

It is a beautiful traditional Japanese event.



But actually,

There are many other names for this besides "Okuizome"

Did you know?



📜 Various names passed down from the Heian period


Hashizoroe (arranging chopsticks), Hashizome (first time using chopsticks), Hashiwai (celebration of chopsticks)

→ From the time your baby uses chopsticks for the first time in their life


Manahajime (the beginning of the fish season) and Mana no Hi (fish day)

→ During the Kamakura period, the rice cake was replaced by fish.


Teething ring

→ This is the time when baby teeth start to grow.


100th day celebration (Momokaiwai) / 100th day celebration (Momokanoiwai)

→ This is done around 100 days after birth.



When you know the thoughts that went into each one,

What a ceremony filled with deep love

Doesn't it make your heart warm?



🌸 The deep reason why it's the 100th day


actually,

During this 100-day period

It has a very deep meaning.



In the past, medical technology was not advanced,

The baby who was able to safely reach 100 days after birth

It was believed that the plant would continue to grow healthily in the future.



It seems commonplace nowadays

"The healthy growth of babies"


For the old people

It was something that we should sincerely wish and pray for.



And around 100 days after birth

Your baby's mouth becomes more active,

This is also the time when drooling increases.



"It's about time they start showing interest in food,"

To perform a ritual to make wishes on food

It was the right timing.



The word "beginning" in "Okuizome" has the following meaning:

"Taking food for the first time in my life"

This is the meaning behind it.



Of course, in reality, they drink breast milk or formula.

As the "first step to eating solid food,"

It is a ritual that has a special meaning.

From the 100th day celebration and the 50th day celebration to eating rice cakes

Complete regional names

What is it called in your area?

Knowing the origin doubles your love

"In my area, we call it ____,

Is that correct?”



Have you ever had such a question?



In fact, Okuizome varies depending on the region.

There are really a variety of names and times.



🗾 History of how names have changed over time


Heian period (early period)

・"Fifty-day celebration"

・On the 50th day after birth, put "Inokamochi" in gruel

・I put a little bit in my baby's mouth.


Kamakura period

・Changed from 50 days to 100 days

・The rice cake was replaced with fish meat and the dish was named "Manahajime"

・There is also a record of Minamoto no Sanetomo's first meal on the 110th day after his birth.


Muromachi period

・The name "Okuizome" becomes established

・A ritual similar to the current form was established



🌍 Modern Regional Variations


Kanto region

・"Okuizome" and "Hyakujitsu-iwai" are common

・Performed between 100 and 110 days after birth


Kansai region

・"Arranging chopsticks" and "First use of chopsticks"

・In Osaka, octopus is used as a pun on the word "tako" (happiness).


Kyoto and some areas

・"Eating stretching" on an auspicious day after the 120th day

・The custom of deliberately delaying the process as a sign of longevity


Hokkaido

・The unique custom of adding sweetened amanatto to red rice

・Ingredient arrangements unique to cold regions


Kyushu region

・In many areas, it is called "hagatame" (teeth hardening).

・It is also common to conduct the test on the 110th and 120th days.



💝 Either way is correct! The affection is the same


Whatever the name of the region,

No matter what time you go,


What is contained in it is

"I hope the baby grows healthy"

The unchanging love of a parent.



"Is the way things are done in my area okay?"


There's absolutely no need to worry about that.



What's important is,

Baby and mother's health

And put the needs of your family first.



In modern times,

Depending on my parents' work schedule, I could go on weekends,

We will arrange the date so that grandparents can join us.

It is also becoming common to do so.



By choosing a day when the whole family can celebrate,

It will be a wonderful and memorable first meal.

The difference between Okuizome and baby food

Why new moms get confused

For 100-day-old babies

What should I do?

"When you first start eating,

It's about time to start weaning him, right?"



"Which one should I do first?"



"Even though it's the same thing: eating,

I don't know what the difference is..."



Every new mom feels this way.

This confusion and anxiety.



In fact, it's a very common problem.



🍼 The fundamental difference between Okuizome and baby food


First meal (around 100 days after birth)


✨Purpose : Ceremony/Celebration

→ A traditional event that expresses the wish that one will never be short of food for the rest of their lives


✨Actual meal : No

→ Just pretend to feed the baby. The baby doesn't actually eat.


✨Food to be used : Celebration meal for adults

→ Auspicious dishes such as sea bream, red rice, and clear soup


✨Timing : One-off special occasion

→ Anniversary celebration with family



Baby food (start around 5-6 months old)


🥄Purpose : Nutritional intake and developmental support

→ Practice to be able to get nutrition other than breast milk or formula


🥄 Actual meal : I do

→ Babies actually swallow it and get nutrients


🥄Food to use : Soft foods made specifically for babies

→ Easy-to-digest foods such as porridge and vegetable paste


🥄Timing : Daily

→ Gradually increase the amount and hardness



💡 "Ah, that's it!" Discovery points


In other words,


Okuizome is a ritual that provides "spiritual nourishment"


Baby food is food that provides "nutrition for the body"



It's something completely different!



👶 Baby Development at 100 Days Old


At this age, your baby:


My neck has become stronger

・Facial expressions have become more expressive

Increased drooling

Mouth movements have become more active


But still:


-Underdeveloped ability to swallow solid foods

The digestive system is also immature

・It's a little early to start weaning



That's why,

For the first meal, simply pretending to eat is enough.



Actual baby food is

After growing up a bit

It's fine once you start (around 5-6 months old).



🌟 Message to new moms


"Everything has to be perfect"


There's no need to worry about it like that.



The first meal is

Celebrate your baby's growth

Heartwarming family time.



Don't think too hard about it.

With a lot of love

I hope you have a wonderful time on this special day.

[New Mom Q&A Part 1]

Resolve all your worries about preparing for your first meal

"Is this okay?"

Eliminate the worry

"My first meal,

Where should I start preparing?"



"What if I can't do it perfectly..."



Moms who have such concerns,

There are really a lot of them.



But it's okay.



At first, everyone has a lot of things they don't understand.



**🤱 Top 5 common preparation worries**


**Q1. "Does the first meal have to be a sea bream? I can't find a small sea bream..."**


**A1.** Don't worry!


It is true that sea bream with its head and tail attached is traditional,

Nowadays, it's okay to be flexible.



**Alternatives**:

・Grilled fillet of sea bream with salt

・Make sea bream rice

・Other white fish (such as sea bass or alfonsino instead of red sea bream)

・Salmon is also available in some areas.


What's important is the feeling of celebration.

If everyone in the family can smile,

This is the most auspicious occasion of the Okuizome ceremony.



**Q2. "I'm not good at cooking, so I can't make everything myself. Is it okay to order food online or buy it from the department store basement?"


**A2.** Of course it's okay!


For mothers who have just given birth,

Looking for perfect handcrafted

It's too much of a stretch.



**Modern Preparation Method**:

・Use mail order for the first meal set

・Ordering a celebratory meal at a department store

-Some are handmade, others are purchased

・Ask your grandparents


Babies don't actually eat

It looks beautiful,

It's enough if the family can eat well.



**Q3. "Where can I get a teething stone? I heard you can borrow one from a shrine, but how do I do that?"**


**A3.** There are several ways!


**If you rent at a shrine**:

・Consult the shrine where the baby was born

・Tell them, "I'd like to borrow a teething stone for the first meal."

・After use, return it with gratitude


**Other methods**:

- Purchase a special stone at a baby goods store

・Pick up a suitable stone from the riverbank (wash it thoroughly)

Substitutes: pickled plum, octopus, chestnuts, red and white rice cakes


"It absolutely has to be stone."

That's not the case.



**Q4. "We can't invite our grandparents because of COVID-19. Is it worth it if only my parents do it?"**


**A4.** Of course it makes sense!


Rather,

The first meal ceremony, which is performed with love by mom and dad,

It's very warm and lovely.



**Ingenious ideas by parents alone**:

- Share photos and videos with grandparents

・Family photo shoot later after things have settled down

・Send a first meal set to your parents' home and hold the ceremony at the same time


The most important thing for a baby is

It's the love of mom and dad.



**Q5. "I'm worried about allergies. It's still too early to tell, so what should I be careful about?"**


**A5.** Don't worry, you won't actually eat it!


Since the first meal is just an act of pretending to eat,

There is basically no need to worry about allergies.



**If you're still worried**:

・It's fine if it touches your mouth

・If you are extremely worried, use only safe ingredients

・Adult portions are OK as usual.



**💝 A heartwarming message for new moms**


It's okay if it's not perfect.



What's important is,

"I hope the baby grows healthy"

That's how I feel.



Even if you're a little unprepared,

If you have loving thoughts,

It will be a wonderful first meal.



Don't try too hard,

Have a fun family time.

Celebration chopsticks (white willow, eight inches, double-ended chopsticks)

Meaning and selection

With the hope of a prosperous future

The secret to choosing chopsticks

"The chopsticks used for the first meal are

Can't you just use regular chopsticks?"



"I've heard of celebratory chopsticks,

What's so special about it?"



In fact, the chopsticks used in the first meal ceremony are:

It is filled with deep meaning and wishes.



**🥢 Special Features of Celebration Chopsticks**


**Material: White willow**


Why willow?



- **Flexible** and hard to break

→ A symbol of strength that will not give in to difficulties


・**Strong vitality**

→ Wishing for healthy growth


・**White wood grain**

→ Expressing a pure and innocent heart



**Length: 8 sun (approx. 24 cm)**


The auspiciousness of the number "eight":


- **Flat-toed** shape

→ It's getting richer and richer


- Means **infinite development**

→ Life is getting better and better


・**Eight million gods**

Protected by many gods



**Shape: Double-ended chopsticks**


The reason for the tapered ends:


・One end is the end used by people.

・The other end is the end used by God.


That is, with God

It means performing the first meal ceremony.



What a great idea!



**🌟 How to choose modern celebratory chopsticks**


**Ideal Celebration Chopsticks**:

- Made of plain willow wood

・Hassun (24cm)

・Double-ended chopsticks with thin ends

・Unpainted and uncolored


**Where to buy**:

・Tableware section of a department store

・Chopsticks specialty store

・Shrine gifts

・Seasonal products section of supermarkets

・100 yen shops (New Year's period)


**To substitute**:

・Bamboo chopsticks are also OK

・Long plain wooden chopsticks

・Celebratory chopsticks for New Year



**💡 "I didn't know that!" Trivia**


**The correct way to place ceremonial chopsticks**:

・Place it horizontally

・Use chopstick rests

・Chopstick tips pointing to the left


**After use**:

・Dispose of with gratitude

・Some moms keep it as a keepsake

・Have it burned at the shrine



**🎋 The thoughts of parents put into chopsticks**


When you pick up the celebratory chopsticks,

Try making this wish:



"Like these chopsticks,

With a flexible and strong heart,

May you overcome any difficulties."



"Like the wide-opening number 'eight',

May your life become richer and richer."



"Because I'm watching over you with God,

Grow up in peace."



🌸 Advice for modern moms


"They absolutely have to be authentic celebratory chopsticks."


That's not the case.



What's important is,

Put it into the chopsticks

Your love and wishes.



Even if it's chopsticks from a 100 yen shop,

If you choose it with your heart,

These will make excellent "celebratory chopsticks."



When the baby grows up,

"These are special chopsticks used at the first meal ceremony."

I can talk to them,


I hope you create such warm memories.

How to choose foster parents

Ideas and alternatives for modern families

When Grandpa and Grandma aren't around

What should we do?

"What is a foster parent?

Who's going to do it?"



"Both of my grandparents live far away and can't come..."



"The first meal is held just for the couple.

Are you lonely?"



In line with modern family circumstances,

It's okay to be flexible.



**👴👵 Traditional Foster Parenting Rules**


**What is a foster parent?**

For babies at the first meal

Someone who pretends to feed someone food


**Traditional method**:


**For boys**

The oldest male participant

(Grandpa, Uncle, etc.)


**For Girls**

The oldest woman among the participants

(Grandma, Aunt, etc.)


**Why the elders?**

→ Celebrating longevity

→ Wisdom from people with a lot of life experience

→ The meaning of deepening family ties



**🏠 Various patterns of modern families**


**Pattern 1: Grandparents live far away, are elderly, or are in poor health**


**Solution**:

・Mom or Dad is the foster parent

・Elderly relatives who can participate

- Have grandparents watch over you via video call

・Later, the second Okuizome ceremony will be held with the grandparents.



**Pattern 2: Unable to gather due to the COVID-19 pandemic**


**Solution**:

- Carried out only by nuclear families

・Family participation via online broadcast

- Held simultaneously in each home at the same time

・Send the first meal set to your parents' home



**Pattern 3: Two-parent family**


**Solution**:

・Husband and wife work together

・Take turns as foster parents

- Invite a close friend and his wife to participate

・Consult with local child-rearing groups



**Pattern 4: Single mother/single father**


**Solution**:

・I am also a foster parent

Ask a trusted friend

Ask your parents for support

Don't strive for perfection



**💝Modern Foster Parenting Ideas**


Idea 1: Remote Foster Parenting

- Grandparents can watch over you via video calls

・Have your child say "Aahn" through the screen

- Take a photo and share it later


Idea 2: Shift Parenting

・Different people are in charge of each dish

・Half for mom and half for dad

・Everyone takes turns participating


**Idea 3: Foster Parents as Keepsakes**

・Message cards from grandparents who cannot attend

・Use celebratory chopsticks chosen by your grandparents

・Tell them to think like grandparents



**🌸What's important is the "heart"**


Traditional rules are certainly beautiful, but


The most important thing for modern families is:



・**Don't overdo it**

・**The whole family is smiling**

・**Show love to your baby**



Even if it's just mom and dad,


The depth of love poured into it

It doesn't change.



**👶 What really matters to babies**


The baby,

Rather than ritual form,


The adults around me

You can sense **warm feelings** and **smiles**.



"There are no perfect adoptive parents.

I can't have the first meal."


Don't think that.



Your family's

Have a wonderful first meal

Please create it.



surely,

It will surely become a warm memory that will stay in your heart.

The correct order for the first meal

Feeding and ritual flow

The baby doesn't cry

Tips on how to proceed

"Once the first meal begins,

In what order should I proceed?"



What to do if the baby starts crying during the lesson



"I heard there's a formal order,

Can you remember it?"



The anxiety of that day

Let's get rid of it!



🍽️ Basic feeding order (repeat 3 times)


First order :

Rice → Clear soup → Rice → Grilled fish → Rice → Clear soup


Second order :

Rice → Clear soup → Rice → Grilled fish → Rice → Clear soup


Third order :

Rice → Clear soup → Rice → Grilled fish → Rice → Clear soup


Finally : the teething ritual



💡 Tips for making it easy to remember


"Rice is the main course, and soup is the icing on the cake.

Fish for protein


It's easy to remember!



Basically it starts with rice and ends with rice.

It's the same as the basics of Japanese food.



👶 Baby-friendly feeding methods


How to hold a baby correctly :

-Sit your baby on your lap

・Support the baby by tilting it slightly backward

・Firm support for the neck

- Place your baby in a relaxed position


How to use chopsticks :

・Pick up some food with celebratory chopsticks

Gently touch your baby's lower lip

・While saying "Aah"

・Don't actually put it in your mouth (just pretend)


Key points to note :

・"It's delicious."

・"Grow up big"

・"Let's eat it all up"

・Speak with a gentle smile



What to do when your baby starts crying


Top 3 reasons to cry :


1. I'm hungry and sleepy

→ Adjust the timing of breastfeeding

→ Carry out this exercise after a nap when the child is in a good mood.


2. Feeling uneasy about the unusual atmosphere

Speak in your usual gentle voice

→ Mommy and Daddy hold the baby and make him feel safe


3. I'm tired

→ Take breaks along the way without overdoing it

→ Tips for getting the job done in a short time



🌟 Modern arrangement, time-saving version


Time-saving version 1: One-time version

Complete the basic sequence once

(Complete in about 5 minutes)


Time-saving version 2: Main dish only

The meal consisted of just three dishes: rice, sea bream, and clear soup.

(Complete in about 3 minutes)


Time-saving version 3: Photo-focused version

Beautifully presented food for the main purpose of photography

The ritual is easy to complete



📸 Tips for a memorable event


Photo timing :

When the meal is ready

・The moment when the foster parents are feeding the baby

・Close-up of baby's facial expression

・Group photo of the whole family

・The tooth-hardening ceremony


Video recording points :

・The entire process in about 1-2 minutes

・Focus on the baby's cute reactions

・Record family conversations together



🎯 The secret to a successful Okuizome ceremony


Preparation :

Write down the order in a memo

Decide on the division of roles within the family

・Camera and video preparation

Choose a time when your baby is in a good mood


Preparation for the day :

Don't strive for perfection

- Go at your baby's pace

・Ensuring a fun atmosphere

Do it with love



💝 The most important thing


More important than format and order is


The whole family

It's a feeling of lovingly celebrating your baby's growth .



Even if the baby starts crying along the way,

Even if you get the order wrong,


That too

It will be a wonderful memory.



Relax your shoulders,

Warm family time

I hope you enjoy it.

How to get teething stones

How to borrow at shrines and list of substitutes

Praying for strong teeth

Stone Selection Guide

"A teething stone,

What kind of stone should I choose?



"How do you borrow from a shrine?

Does it cost money?”



"I heard that you can use something other than stone as a substitute,

What can you use?"



About teething stones

Let's solve all your doubts!



🪨 What is a teething stone? Its deep meaning


Teething stones are

This stone is used in the "tooth-hardening ceremony" that is held at the end of the first meal ceremony.



Incorporated wish :

・May your teeth grow as strong as stone.

・"Strong teeth that can eat hard foods"

・"May you live a long and healthy life"


Since ancient times,

Strong teeth have long been considered a symbol of healthy longevity.



Even today,

Dental health is directly linked to overall health

It's scientifically proven.



🏛️ Complete guide to borrowing at shrines


Shrines where you can borrow :

・The shrine where the baby was born

・Local guardian deity

・The shrine where you prayed for safe childbirth

・A shrine with the god of fertility and child-rearing


Borrowing procedure :


Step 1: Preliminary check

・Contact by phone to ask, "Can I borrow a teething stone?"

・Check available rental dates and times

・Question about thanks (first offering)


Step 2: Visit the Shrine

・Tell the shrine office that you would like to borrow a teething stone for the first meal.

・Pay the first offering (approximately 300 to 1,000 yen)

・Pray with gratitude


Step 3: Return after use

・Return the item as soon as possible after the first meal.

・Wash thoroughly and keep clean

・Reporting gratitude and visiting the shrine



💡 How to borrow at a shrine and actual conversation examples


Mommy : "Excuse me, may I borrow a teething stone for the first meal?"


Shrine attendant : "Yes, we have it. When would you like to use it?"


Mommy : "We're planning it for next Saturday."


Shrine staff : "Understood. Please use this stone. Please return it whenever you're done."



Something like this,

They are very kind to me!



🛒 Where to buy


Baby Goods Store :

・Akachan Honpo

・Nishimatsuya

・Toys"R"Us

・Special teething stone set for sale


Online Shop :

・Amazon, Rakuten Market

・It may be included in the first meal set.

・Single item purchase also possible


Department store :

・Baby goods section

・Seasonal products corner

- Choose high-quality stones



🌊 Things to note if you pick it up yourself


Suitable place :

・Clean riverbank

・Coast (stones washed by the tides)

・Shrine grounds (with permission)


Conditions for choosing stones :

- Small stones about 2-3cm in diameter

-Rounded with no corners

Black, red, and white stones are ideal.

・Clean and beautiful stone


Required Action :

・If you pick it up, be sure to disinfect it with boiling water.

Wash thoroughly with a neutral detergent

・Let it dry completely



🍯 Stone Substitutes - Regional Variations


When you can't get stones,

As a local custom,

A variety of substitutes are used.



Common substitutes in the Kansai region :


Octopus

・A pun on "takou" (happiness)

・Because it has a chewy texture

・Especially popular in Osaka


Pickled plums

・The meaning of "Live long enough to be wrinkled"

・It has long been a valuable preserved food

・Symbol of longevity


Other substitutes :


chestnuts

-Hard shell represents strong teeth

・It is considered auspicious as a "winning chestnut."


Abalone

・A special feeling as a luxury ingredient

・The meaning of hard shell


red and white mochi

・Auspicious colors

・Soft but with a special meaning


Go stones

・Expressing yin and yang with black and white

・Beautiful round shape



🎯 Teething Ceremony: The Correct Way


procedure :

1. Gently touch the teething stone with your celebratory chopsticks

2. Gently place the chopsticks on the baby's gums (around the mouth)

3. Pray for strong teeth

4. Clap with the whole family


Examples of calls :

・"May your teeth grow as strong as stone"

・"I hope your teeth will be good enough to enjoy eating anything."

・"Grow up healthy and strong"



💝 Advice for modern moms


Teething stones are

It doesn't necessarily have to be a "perfect stone."



What's important is,

Put into that stone (or substitute)

Your love and wishes .



Even stones from a 100 yen shop

Even pickled plums,

Even octopus,


If you choose it with your heart,

It makes a great teething stone.



When the baby grows up,

"It's a special stone used at the first meal ceremony."

I can talk to them,


Such warm memories

Please make it.

[New Mom Q&A Part 2]

How to deal with problems on the day

The baby started crying!

What should you do in this situation?

"The preparations were perfect,

On the day itself, something unexpected happened..."



"My baby is fussy,

This is no time for a ceremony!"



"What should I do in a situation like this?"



Common problems on the first day of eating,

We have summarized how to deal with this problem.



😭 Top 7 problems on the day & how to solve them


Problem 1: Baby won't stop crying


Cause :

I'm hungry

·sleepy

The diaper is dirty

・Anxiety about the unusual atmosphere


Solution :

First, check the basic care

Mommy holds the baby and makes him feel safe

- Pause and let your baby calm down

・Restart at a later time

・Simplify and proceed without overdoing it



Problem 2: Cooking isn't ready in time


Cause :

It took longer to cook than I expected.

・Interrupted due to baby care

・I forgot to buy something


Solution :

・Arrange the dishes in order of completion

-Add any missing dishes later

・Urgent purchases at department store basements or convenience stores

・All you need is a "handmade spirit"



Problem 3: I forgot or can't find my teething stone


Emergency Substitution List :

・Umeboshi (Live a long life until wrinkled)

・Chestnuts (hard and auspicious)

・Find beautiful pebbles in the garden

・Go stones (if available)

・Firm cookies

・The ritual is performed using chopsticks while chanting "Like a stone" in your mind.



Problem 4: Grandparents suddenly can't come


Solution :

- Have participants join via video call

・The second Okuizome ceremony will be held at a later date.

- Take photos and videos and share them later

・The program was carried out with the message that "we are also thinking about the feelings of our grandparents."



Problem 5: Baby won't open his mouth at all


Solution :

Do not try to force the mouth open

・Just lightly touch the chopsticks to your lips

・Say "Aah" happily

・Show your family eating delicious food

Wait for the baby to be in a good mood



Problem 6: I can't take good photos


Solution :

Make time to prioritize photography over rituals

・Shoot a video with your smartphone (take a screenshot later)

・Divide roles among family members (one person specializes in photography)

・Prioritize a "fun atmosphere" over "perfect photos"

・Schedule a photo shoot at a later date



Problem 7: Significantly exceeding the scheduled time


Solution :

・Switch to the time-saving version

・Limit your meal to the main dish (sea bream, rice, and soup)

・Priority is given to taking photos

・Proceed at a "baby pace"

Don't strive for perfection



💡 "What should I do in this situation?" Advanced


Q: "My baby has fallen asleep. Should I wake him up?"


A: Don't wake me up!

・Sleeping photos are also great

-Wait until you wake up or do it another day

・Interpreted as "I feel so safe that I can sleep soundly"



Q: "I pooped in the middle of it..."


A: It happens all the time!

・Enjoy it as a funny story

・Resume after changing diapers

・Be positive and say, "That's proof that you're doing well."



Q: "I lost the eye of my sea bream."


A: No problem!

Feelings are more important than appearances

・The feeling of "congratulations" remains the same

Let's enjoy it later



🌟 Advance preparation to minimize problems


Preparation the day before :

・Prepare dishes the day before if possible

- Prepare all the necessary tools

・Check the time schedule for the day

Decide on the division of roles within the family


Preparations for the morning :

・Check your baby's health and mood

・Adjusting the timing of breastfeeding and diaper changes

- Camera and video operation check

・Mental preparation (don't strive for perfection)



💝 The most important mindset


Even if trouble occurs,


Including that

It will be a special memory just for your family .



"It didn't go as planned"

"I failed."


There is absolutely no need to think that way.



The baby reached 100 days in good health,


Something the whole family can celebrate together,


That's enough

It's a wonderful start to the meal .



When I look back in a few years,


"It was a difficult time, but

It's a laughing matter now."


I can talk like that,

It will surely become a warm family memory.



Relax your shoulders,

Special time with your baby

I hope you enjoy it.

First meal tableware for boys and girls

(The differences between lacquerware, vermilion lacquerware, and black lacquerware)

Choosing tableware that can be used for a lifetime

Modern arrangement

Is it true that boys and girls have different tableware?



"Lacquerware seems expensive,

Do I absolutely have to prepare it?”



Would modern tableware be okay?



Regarding the tableware for the first meal,

From traditional to modern arrangements

We will explain in detail.



🍽️ Differences between traditional tableware for men and women


Boys' dishes :


- Color : Vermilion painted inside and outside

・Meaning : Vermilion was considered a high-status color

・Wish : I want my child to grow up strong and robust.

・Tray height : Low design



Girls' dishes :


- Color : Black painted on the outside, vermilion painted on the inside

・Meaning : Black represents elegance and sophistication

・Wish : To grow up beautiful and elegant

・Height of tray : Higher than boys' tray



💡 "I see!" Historical background


This difference arose from the Onmyodo philosophy of the Heian period.



At the time, the technique of making vermilion was difficult,

Because it was considered a high-class color,

Vermilion was used for boys.



The combination of black and vermilion for girls is

"Modest on the outside, passionate on the inside"

This aesthetic sense was embodied in the design.



🎨 Modern Tableware Options


Option 1: Traditional lacquerware


merit :

・A formal and dignified first meal ceremony can be held

You can keep it as a keepsake for life.

・It looks very photogenic

- Can be passed down as a family heirloom


Cons :

- The price is high (around 20,000 to 100,000 yen)

・It is difficult to maintain

Not suitable for everyday use

・If siblings have different genders, two sets are required.



Option 2: Modern baby tableware


merit :

・Can be used for a long time after the first meal.

Easy to clean

・Reasonable prices (around 3,000 to 15,000 yen)

Some are microwave and dishwasher safe


Cons :

・It lacks the traditional formality

・The beauty of the photographs is not comparable to that of lacquerware.



Option 3: Rent or borrow


merit :

- You can use high-quality lacquerware at an affordable price

You don't need to think about where to store it

No need to worry about maintenance


Cons :

・Cannot be kept as a souvenir

・The usage period is limited

There is a risk of damage



🌟 Recommended tableware for modern moms


Recommended plans by budget :


Budget under 10,000 yen :

・Warm wooden baby tableware set

・Cute Japanese-style ceramic tableware

・Combining small Japanese-style plates from a 100-yen shop


Budget 10,000-30,000 yen :

・High-quality baby tableware brands (Miki House, familiar, etc.)

・Handmade wooden tableware set by artisans

・Lacquerware-style resin tableware


Budget over 30,000 yen :

・Authentic lacquerware tableware set

・Luxury baby tableware that can be personalized

・High-quality tableware that will last a lifetime



🍼 How to choose with practicality in mind


Requirements for long-lasting tableware :


・Safety : Rounded corners and shatter-resistant material

- Size : Size that can be used as the child grows

Care : Easy to wash and keep clean

Design : Simple and timeless



🎭 Modern style that doesn't discriminate between men and women


Recently,

Doesn't care about gender

The number of families is also increasing.



Modern thinking :

・Use the same color tableware regardless of gender

- Choose a design that can be shared by siblings

Let your child choose their favorite color

-Putting practicality first



"Tradition is important, but

In line with modern values

It's okay to think flexibly."


That's the trend.



📸 How to choose a photogenic space


Tips for taking beautiful photos :


・Color consistency : Match the color tones of your tableware

・Beautiful texture : Choose shiny materials

・Beautiful layout : balanced shape

・Harmony with the background : Match with the interior of the room



💝 Tips for choosing tableware that suits your home


It's all about feeling like home :



Make choices that align with your family's values

Decide within your budget

・Consider the balance between practicality and value as a keepsake.

Above all, it is important to choose with love.



Even expensive lacquerware

Handmade wooden tableware,

Even with 100 yen tableware,


It was put there

Mom and Dad's love

There is no difference.



When the baby grows up,


"This is the time of your first meal.

It's special tableware."


I can show you that,

Warm mementos

Please choose.

A modern version of Okuizome

Allergy-friendly, photo shoots, and souvenir making

In line with the times

A new way to celebrate

"We want to cherish tradition, but

I want to adapt it to suit modern life.”



I'm worried about allergies,

I want to have a safe Okuizome ceremony..."



"I want to post beautiful photos on social media."



Adapted to modern lifestyles

How to arrange your first meal

We would like to introduce you to...



🍼 Allergy-friendly first meal


Basic concept :


The first meal is just an act of pretending to eat,

Generally, there is no need to worry about allergies.



However, just to be on the safe side

We will explain the steps you should take if you want to stay safe.



Allergy-friendly menu ideas :


Sea bream substitute :

・White fish meunière (without butter)

・Grilled salmon with salt

・Teriyaki chicken

・Tofu hamburger


Substitutes for red rice :

・Color white rice with carrots

・Multigrain rice (allergy-friendly)

・Porridge (baby food)


Substitute for soup :

・Vegetable soup only

・Kelp miso soup

・Chicken soup (no eggs)



🏠 First meal for the work-from-home generation


Quick and easy version :


For busy modern moms and dads

This is an efficient plan for the first meal.



30-minute completion plan :

・Order the first meal set online

・Progress with emphasis on photography

- The ceremony is simplified to about 5 minutes

・Enjoy delicious food with the whole family


Weekday plan :

・ Carry out in between work from home

・Use your lunch break

・Grandparents can also participate in online meetings

・Celebrate again with just your family in the evening



📱 A perfect SNS-worthy first meal


Instagrammable presentation tips :


Color Balance :

・Red (sea bream, red rice)

・White (rice, soup)

・Greenery (vegetables, decorative leaves)

・Black (teething stone, seaweed)

・Gold (edging of the vessel)


Shooting angle :

・Bird's-eye view from directly above

・Beautiful angle from a 45 degree angle

・Cooking with your baby

・Close-up of family members' hands


Stylish accessories :

Add seasonal flowers

・Japanese-style rugs and placemats

・A cute name card as the background

・Gorgeously decorated with garlands



🎬 Videography and recording ideas


Create memorable videos :


Time-lapse photography :

- Fast forward from preparation to cleanup

- Record changes in your baby's facial expressions

・The cooperation of the family


Slow motion shooting :

・The moment when the chopsticks are brought to the baby's mouth

・Baby's cute gestures

・Family smile moments


Audio matters too :

- Record family conversations

- Baby voices and laughter

・A wish to "grow up big"



🎁 Modern souvenir making


Digital keepsakes :


Photobook :

・Complete record from preparation to the day

・In conjunction with your baby's growth record

・Also makes a great gift for grandparents


Video editing :

・Create moving videos with background music

- Add your wishes and thoughts with subtitles

・Included in New Year's cards and growth record DVDs


Analog Memorabilia :


Handprints and footprints :

・As a record of growth on the 100th day

・Enter the date of the first meal

- Safe collection using special ink


Along with the naming certificate :

・Attach a photo of the first meal

・Write down your family's wishes

・Put it in a frame and display it



🌐 Online/remote participation


How to connect with distant grandparents :


Live Streaming :

・Use Zoom and LINE video calls

・Celebrate together in real time

・A warm sense of participation even through the screen


Concurrent Events :

・Send a baby shower set to your parents' home

- Carried out at the same time in each household

・Toasting online


Recording sharing :

Record the ceremony

・Watch together with the whole family later

・Reminiscing



💚 Eco-sustainable first meal ceremony


The eco-friendly choice :


Ingredient selection :

・Use locally produced ingredients

Choose organic ingredients

・Measures to prevent food waste


Utensils and tools :

Choose high-quality products that will last a long time

・Use rental equipment

・Recyclable materials



🌟 Recommendations for our family-style arrangements


What's important is,

It's about valuing your family .



There's no need to stick too closely to traditional methods

Adapt it to your modern lifestyle

Choose a way to make the whole family smile

・Enjoy it within your limits



Even 100 years from now,

Even after 200 years,


"I hope the baby grows healthy"

The parents' feelings

It will never change.



While changing its shape to suit the times,

That essential love

Please pass it on to future generations with care.

A record of growth after the first meal

Preparing for the next celebration

From the 100th day celebration to the first festival

Connection to half birthdays

"After the first meal,

What's your next celebration?"



"I want to record this feeling,

I want it to be a memory of growing up."



"Continuous growth of the baby

I want to celebrate.”



The first meal is

in a baby's life

Great start.



This will come during the growth process

About various celebrations

We will guide you.



📅 Baby Yearly Celebration Calendar


6 months old: Half birthday


・Meaning : A modern event to celebrate the growth of a baby in the first six months of life

Contents : Baby food cake, photo shoot, growth record

・Preparation : Celebrating the baby's ability to sit up

・Connection with Okuizome : The time to start solid food



First Festival (March 3rd and May 5th)


・Girls (Doll Festival) : Wishing for beautiful and healthy growth

・Boys (Children's Day) : Wishing for a strong and healthy growth

・Preparation period : Start considering after the first meal

・Connection with Okuizome : Celebrating with seasonal foods



1st birthday (first birthday)


・Meaning : A major milestone marking one year without incident

Contents : 1 sho rice cake, a selection of rice cakes, birthday cake

・Connection with Okuizome : Food wishes come true



📸 How to keep a record of your child's growth


Recommendations for monthly photos :


Monthly fixed point photography :

- Photographed at the same place and time

・You can see the changes in growth at a glance

・It's moving to look back on it a year later.


Record of meal scene :

・From the beginning of eating to the start of solid food

・Record the first food you ate

・Changes in likes and dislikes can also become interesting memories


Body Measurement Record :

・Regular measurement of weight, height, and head circumference

・Using the first meal day as a reference point

- Record along with growth curve



🎁 How to use Okuizome goods


Storage and use of celebratory chopsticks :


・Keep it as a souvenir : Store it carefully in a paulownia wood box

・Reuse for the next event : First festival or birthday

・As a talisman : Special chopsticks used to eat with the gods

Future speech : "These are your first chopsticks."



Continued use of tableware :


・As baby tableware : Continue using practical tableware

・Special occasions only : Used for birthdays and anniversaries

- Shared with siblings : inherited as a family treasure

・For photography : As a prop for growth record photos



📖 Create a growth diary


First meal page :


・Post lots of photos from the day

・Names and comments of participating family members

- Record your baby's condition and reactions in detail

・Ingredients used and menu recipes

- Record of the day's weather and season



Continuous record items :


・Food records : baby's progress with solid food, favorite foods

・Growth record : What you can do now

・Photo recording : fixed-point photography once a month

・Family records : Mom and Dad's thoughts and feelings



🌸 Seasonal celebration plans


Spring-born babies :

・Okuizome → Half birthday → First New Year → First birthday

・Cherry blossom season photography

・Baby food made with spring vegetables


Summer babies :

・Okuizome → First New Year → Half birthday → First birthday

・Make memories of summer festivals and fireworks

・Baby food made with summer vegetables


Autumn babies :

・Okuizome → First New Year → First Festival → Half Birthday

・Foliage viewing and autumn flavors

・Celebrations related to the harvest season


Winter-born babies :

・Okuizome → First Festival → Half Birthday → First Birth

・Photo shoot in snowy scenery

・Celebrate with hot food



👨👩👧👦 Ways to strengthen family bonds


Regular family meetings :


- Review your baby's growth once a month

・Share your next goals and fun with your family

- Look back at photos and videos together

・Report to grandparents



Anniversary Continuation :


・Make the 8th of each month (Okuizome Day) a mini anniversary

・Meals with special ingredients

・Record growth changes in photos

・Share the feeling of celebration with the whole family



💕 Finally: The Chain of Love


The first meal is

in a baby's life

The first big celebration.



But this is not the end.



It's just beginning

A loving coming-of-age story

It's a great prologue.



Photos I took today,

The record I wrote today is


10 years later, 20 years later

It will become an irreplaceable treasure.



and,

The baby grows up

When I had my own child,


"We do it like this too

It was celebrated with love."


That is how it is passed down

A chain of love is born.



It starts with the beginning of the meal

This wonderful story,


With the whole family

Please continue to weave it with care.

A heartfelt final message

Thank you for reading this long article to the end.

Thank you very much.



About the first meal

I have told you a lot of things,


The most important thing is,


It is not about having a perfect first meal,

Celebrating the baby with love


That's why.



Even though the preparation is difficult,

Even if something happens on the day,

Even if things don't go as planned,


Including that

It will be a special memory just for your family .



This article is

It will be a wonderful first meal help,


For babies and families

I hope you have a heartwarming day


I pray for you from the bottom of my heart.



The healthy growth of the baby,

Happiness for your whole family

I hope so.



Congratulations on your first meal.