Shichi-go-san, which literally means seven, five and three, is a Japanese annual event meant to celebrate healthy growth and extend a wish for longevity for three and seven year-old daughters, and three and five year-old sons. Children usually dress up in kimono or hakama and honour and hope for their healthy growth and longevity with their parents. Commemorative photos are usually taken of this rite of passage. On Shichi-go-san, children get to eat Chitose Ame (literally “thousand years candy”), thin, long red and white candies. These symbolize healthy growth and longevity. Parents sip ceremonial sake.
Under the guidance of board member Yuhito Adachi, JCAM held its first Shichi-go-san event November 10 and 11 at the Centre. The celebration is probably the first opportunity for Japanese children to wear formal clothing. It is a way of preserving kimono culture as clothing, language and food are three highly significant elements of cultural preservation. This was the first opportunity to celebrate clothing culture with children at JCAM. Almost a dozen families participated and the response was so positive we are already planning a second such event in 2019.
