Shichi-Go-San
Shichi-Go-San is a Japanese celebration for children aged three, five, and seven. It is traditionally observed on or around November 15. According to Meiji Jingu, prayers for children’s healthy growth are offered at age five for boys and ages three and seven for girls. The name means “seven-five-three,” referring to the ages associated with the occasion.
How Shichi-Go-San Started
The exact origin of Shichi-Go-San is not well documented as a single event or founding. Today, the observance is a time to pray for children’s healthy growth. Meiji Jingu describes the customary ages as five for boys and three and seven for girls, with the observance held on or around November 15.
November 15 is the traditional date, but families may observe Shichi-Go-San on a nearby day that fits their schedule. The occasion is a family milestone and a way to honor customs passed down through generations.
Why the Ages Three, Five, and Seven Matter
In Shichi-Go-San, the ages are celebrated as meaningful steps in childhood. Meiji Jingu notes that the customary ages are three and seven for girls and five for boys. Families use the occasion to pray for children’s healthy growth.
Children often wear formal clothing for the occasion. Girls may wear kimono, while boys may wear kimono or other formal outfits; choices differ from family to family. Some children wear traditional garments for the first time, while others dress in modern clothes. The important part is marking the child’s growth in a way that feels special to the family.
A familiar treat is chitose ame, or “thousand-year candy.” It is a long, thin candy often given in a decorated bag. Its name and shape are associated with wishes for a long, healthy life. Families may also take photographs to remember the day, creating a record of a child’s changing years.
Ways to Celebrate Shichi-Go-San
There are many ways to observe Shichi-Go-San, whether your family follows Japanese traditions closely or is learning about the celebration from afar:
- Visit a shrine. Families visit a Shinto shrine to pray for a child’s healthy growth. If you plan a visit, check local customs and opening information in advance.
- Dress up for the occasion. Choose kimono, another formal outfit, or clothing your child feels comfortable wearing. A special accessory or a favorite outfit can make the day feel festive without requiring a full traditional ensemble.
- Take a keepsake photo. Capture a portrait or a relaxed family picture. You might include a meaningful location, a seasonal background, or a small item connected to the celebration.
- Share a special treat. Try chitose ame if it is available, or enjoy another favorite sweet together. Explain the good wishes associated with the candy as part of the celebration.
- Make time for family stories. Look at photos from earlier birthdays, tell a child what you love about seeing them grow, or create a small memory book for the milestone.
- Explore the tradition respectfully. Read about Shichi-Go-San together, visit a cultural center or museum if one is nearby, or talk with someone who celebrates it. Let children ask questions and enjoy learning about the customs.
When is Shichi-Go-San?
Shichi-Go-San: Every year on November 15.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 15 | Sunday |
| 2027 | November 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | November 15 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | November 15 | Thursday |
| 2030 | November 15 | Friday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 27, 2026 · Last updated October 27, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is Shichi-Go-San in 2026?
Shichi-Go-San is on Sunday, November 15, 2026. After that, it falls on Monday, November 15, 2027. Every year on November 15.
Is Shichi-Go-San a public holiday?
No. Shichi-Go-San is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did Shichi-Go-San start?
The exact origin of Shichi-Go-San is not well documented as a single event or founding. Today, families observe it to pray for children’s healthy growth.
What does Shichi-Go-San celebrate?
Shichi-Go-San celebrates children’s growth at ages three and seven for girls and five for boys. Its name means “seven-five-three,” referring to these customary ages.
How do families celebrate Shichi-Go-San?
Families may visit a Shinto shrine to pray for a child’s healthy growth, dress up, take keepsake photos, and share chitose ame, or “thousand-year candy.” They may observe on or around November 15.
Sources
✓ Date matches Meiji Jingu: Rites of life (checked automatically on October 27, 2026).
