15th Nov 2019: Shichi-Go-San at Hie Shrine
Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese celebration that marks important milestones in a child’s growth. It is observed for boys at the age of five and for girls at the ages of three and seven, according to the traditional Japanese way of counting years. These ages have long been considered significant stages in a child’s development, and the custom expresses gratitude for their healthy growth so far and prayers for their continued well-being. The origins of Shichi-Go-San date back to the Heian period, when rituals were performed among the imperial court and samurai families before gradually spreading to the general population. In those times, infant mortality was high, so ceremonies such as Kamioki (beginning to grow out the hair at age three), Hakamagi (wearing a hakama for the first time at age five), and Obitoki (starting to wear an obi sash at age seven) were held. These practices form the basis of today’s Shichi-Go-San tradition. In modern times, it is customary for families to v...