On a Sunday closest to November 15, considered the most auspicious day in the Japanese calender, families descend on Shinto shrines across Japan, to celebrate a rite of passage called Shichi-go-san.
The name literally translates to ‘Seven-Five-Three’, indicating a medieval tradition among aristocratic/Samurai families that stipulated that boys and girl stopped getting their hair shaved when they turned three, that boys aged five put on Hakama for the first time in public, and that girls aged seven began using obi sash to tie their kimono, instead of cords.
Today it is more a joyous celebration and thanksgiving for the gift of children, and a time to offer prayers for their health, longevity and success in life. What serendipity to have visited the Meiji Jingu shrine on such an auspicious and festive day!
You might remember the wedding ceremonies I featured earlier, as well as the joyous father with his newborn from a couple of weeks ago. Here are more happy families in all their traditional finery:
Thank you for visiting, and have a great weekend 🙂
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Shinro Shimpu, Banzai!
Joy!
Fascinating how Japan has a good number of special days for the youth. It’s really nice to know their culture now that I easily caught up and understand what’s the post’s all about.
You have had such an in depth immersion into Japanese life Rommel. I am a wee bit envious 🙂
Well! I was certain that I commented on these beautiful children in their finery. I guess I didn’t hit “post” as often happens in the Mad Cow World… I loved this post! What a delight it is, Madhu!
When I visit, I try to read backwards from your last post to the place where I stopped at my last visit. I enjoy reading your work that way. It allows me to get into the feel of your adventures! 🙂
I love oriental clothing. I have a beautiful Komono robe. I would adore the black kimono the
little boy is wearing. Fabulous information and great photos of their day.
THanks for all that information and the lovely pictures.
Absolutely gorgeous!!
Very interesting!
A ritual to celebrate the gift of having children – how sweet is that! 🙂