Shichigosan is a cherished Japanese tradition celebrating children's growth, held for girls at ages 3 and 7, and for boys at ages 3 and 5.
When you start planning, you may wonder: "Does Shichigosan have to be in November?" or "Should it be exactly on November 15th?"
Here's a guide to choosing the best timing for your family's Shichigosan celebration.
When Should You Celebrate Shichigosan?
Shichigosan doesn't actually have to take place on November 15th.
The most popular window is from mid-October through late November.
Shrines and temples tend to be crowded on weekends and holidays in November, so if you'd like a more relaxed visit, a weekday or a date in early or late November is a great option.
If you're celebrating siblings together, don't worry too much about the exact date — choose a day that works well for the whole family.
When Should You Start Preparing?
Once you've decided on your shrine visit date, it's a good idea to arrange your kimono rental, dressing, hairstyling and photography in advance.
October and November are peak Shichigosan season, and popular time slots fill up quickly — we recommend booking 1–2 months ahead if you have a preferred date.
These days, more and more families choose to separate the "pre-shoot" photo session from the actual shrine visit.
This helps reduce stress on your child while still allowing plenty of time for beautiful memories to be captured.
There's no rule that says it must be November 15th.
Consider your child's condition, your family's schedule and shrine crowds, and choose the timing that works best for your family ✨
Celebrate Shichigosan in Harajuku
At HARAJUKU KIMONO HOUSE, we offer kimono rental, dressing, hairstyling and photography for your Shichigosan celebration.
Take advantage of our Harajuku location to stroll through Omotesando and around Meiji Shrine in kimono, capturing beautiful family photos along the way.
Enjoy a special day that celebrates your child's growth.
Reservations are available through our website booking form or official LINE account.
For more details: https://harajukukimonohouse.com/shichigosan.html