Shichi-Go-San (literally “Seven-Five-Three”) is a traditional coming-of-age ceremony in Japan that dates back to ancient time. It is held for children aged three, five, and seven, symbolizing their healthy growth and safe passage through childhood. For Japanese people, this occasion is not only about dressing in traditional attire—it is a heartfelt cultural tradition that brings blessings and hopes for the children’s future.

During the Shichi-Go-San festival, three- and seven-year-old girls will dress in beautiful kimonos and visit shrines to pray for health and happiness. For three-year-old girls, it will be the very first time they wear a formal kimono, marking the first step in their journey of growing up. They will also wear a more delicate furisode (a long-sleeved kimono) at seven and again for the first time, wear the obi belt — a symbol of maturity. This moment signifies a child’s gradual passage from early childhood toward a more mature stage of life.

The designs of Shichi-Go-San kimonos are filled with symbolic blessings. Common motifs such as cherry blossoms, cranes, peonies, and pine trees are not only beautiful but also symbolise longevity, prosperity, and purity. The accessories are equally refined, including small handbags, adorable hair ornaments, and traditional zōri sandals—creating a look that radiates both elegance and festivity. The ensemble is more than just “Cute”; it reflects the grace of a “Little Adult,” allowing each girl to shine as a fairy-tale princess on this special day.

Shichi-Go-San is also an important coming-of-age celebration for three- and five-year-old boys. At the age of three, boys often wear an adorable haori-hakama or a kimono styled like a little suit, symbolizing their first step growing up. At five, they will wear a formal haori-hakama outfit complete with a belt and fan, giving them a more dignified and charming look.

The designs of boys’ Shichi-Go-San kimonos are also filled with symbolic blessings. Common traditional motifs such as eagles, drums, pine-bamboo-plum patterns, samurai armor, and other auspicious symbols represent Courage, Health, Prosperity, and Family Happiness. Accessories like small pouch, fan, or ornamental short swords will also being added for completing the traditional yet boyish look. On this special day, young boys — dressed like little samurai — will walk confidently into the shrine, receiving their family’s blessings and creating unforgettable memories of their growth.

Unlike the casual kimonos worn in daily life, the kimonos for Shichi-Go-San can be described as an “upgraded” version of formal attire. They not only are far more elaborate and ornate, but also carry a deeper sense of ceremony and emotional meaning. On this special day, children will put on kimonos chosen just for them with their hair neatly styled in front of the mirror. They will joyfully admire their reflections—just like little Japanese princes and princesses stepping out of a fairy tale.

If you’re planning for a trip to Japan, you can consider adding a Shichi-Go-San kimono experience to your itinerary. In particular, Asakusa in Tokyo is an ideal location for this— the streets here are filled with nostalgic charm of the Edo period, and the historic Sensō-ji Temple also offers a timeless atmosphere that feels like stepping back into old Japan. In such environment, children dressed in Shichi-Go-San kimonos never fail to capture attention, enchanting onlookers with a perfect blend of sweetness and elegance.

At Kimono Rental Yae in Asakusa, we offer special Shichi-Go-San style kimono rental service, allowing little girls from all around the world to experience the beauty of this traditional Japanese celebration. We provide a wide selection of elegant, colorful kimonos made from fine fabrics, complete by various accessories and professional hairstyling to create a one-of-a-kind look for each child. No matter where are you from, the moment parents help their child choose this traditional outfit filled with blessings and capture those joyful smiles in photos—it becomes a heartwarming memory to cherish for a lifetime.

We can't recomment this even more for the whole family to dress in kimonos together. Strolling through the nostalgic streets and taking a set of traditional Japanese-style family photos will be such a precious way to celebrate a child’s growth. It will also be a heartfelt and meaningful travel memory for the entire family.

Shichi-Go-San is more than just a festival for children; it’s a beautiful moment that any family member can join, experience, and treasure together. Children can step into a dreamlike world where tradition meets fairy tales and feel the warmth and elegance of Japanese culture through the beauty of the kimono — also adding an unforgettable touch of emotion to your journey !