七五三

• Reading: しちごさん
• Romaji: shichi-go-san
• Kanji breakdown: 七 (shichi) — seven; 五 (go) — five; 三 (san) — three
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.tɕi.ɡo.sa.ɴ/

Meaning

Shichi-go-san; a traditional Japanese celebration held for children aged 3, 5, and 7. Marks important milestones in a child's growth.

A noun referring to a traditional Shinto rite of passage celebrated on 15 November. Girls celebrate at ages 3 and 7, boys at ages 5 (though this varies by region). Families visit shrines in formal wear — often kimono — to pray for the children's health and future. The name 七五三 literally means 'seven, five, three.' Children receive chitose-ame (千歳飴), long red-and-white candy symbolising longevity.

Examples

1. 七五三の衣装を選ぶために着物店へ家族全員で出かけた。 The whole family went to a kimono shop to pick out outfits for Shichi-Go-San.
2. 娘が三歳になり、初めての七五三を神社でお祝いした。 Our daughter turned three, and we celebrated her first Shichi-Go-San at the shrine.
3. 七五三は子どもの成長と健康を神に感謝する伝統的な行事だ。 Shichi-Go-San is a traditional event where families give thanks to the gods for their children's growth and health.

Usage Guide

Context: Shinto ritual, family events, children's milestones, traditional culture

Tone: celebratory

Origin & History

The numbers 七 (shichi), 五 (go), and 三 (san) represent the ages at which the ceremony is held. The practice became widespread during the Edo period and formalised in the Meiji era.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo–Modern

Generation: Families with young children

Social background: All classes