Mini facts about "SHICHIGOSAN"

SHICHIGOSAN

"SHICHIGOSAN" is celebrated on the 15th of November every year in most regions of Japan.
By Edo-era (1603-1868), most people practiced "Shichigosan". It is believed that November the 15th was chosen for this celebration because it was considered the most auspicious day of the year, according to the traditional Japanese calendar. There are various theories on why it falls on November the 15th- some say that adding 3, 5 and 7 makes 15, some say it is because the famous Edo era Shogun Tokugawa’s son was born on November the 15th.

Whatever the theory and whatever the era, through "Shichigosan" rituals, parents offered gratitude for their children's healthy growth, safety and prayed for their future happiness.

Following the visits to the local shrine, parents generally buy "Chitose-ame" (Chitose = thousand years) - Longevity candy. Long candies in bags which are decorated with turtles and cranes are given to the children. The turtles and cranes symbolise longevity. Chitose-ame is the parents wish that their children live long and happy lives.
SHICHIGOSAN