Shichi-Go-San (しちごさん / Shichi-Go-San) is a traditional festival in Japan to celebrate the healthy growth of children, usually held on or around November 15 every year. The name of this festival comes from "seven years old, five years old, three years old", symbolizing three important stages of growth. 

 The meaning of the festival 

 Seventy-five-three originated in the Heian era. It was originally a ceremony for the nobles and samurai classes to pray for the safe and healthy growth of children. With the development of the times, it has gradually evolved into an important traditional festival for ordinary families. On the 75th day, parents will take their children to the shrine to pay homage, express gratitude to the gods, and pray for happiness and well-being in the future. 

 The object of celebration 

 • Three years old: suitable for boys and girls, celebrating the child's long hair, symbolizing growth. 

 • Five years old: suitable for boys, marking the age of officially wearing hakama (kimono bottom), which means the change from a young child to a teenager. 

 • Seven years old: suitable for girls, celebrating wearing formal vibrating sleeves and wide belts, symbolizing the maturity and elegance towards the girlhood stage. 

 The way to celebrate 

 1. Visit the shrine: Family members take their children to the shrine in kimono to pray for health and peace. 

 2. Wear traditional clothes: girls usually wear gorgeous sleeves, while boys wear hakama or slightly simple kimonos, reflecting the ritual of the festival. 

 3. Give away Chitose candy: After the visit, the child will receive a gorgeous bag.