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Shichi-go-san Girl. Copy right BEN

Today, November 15 is annual Shichi-go-san day to pray for the healthy growth of young children especially, three and seven year-old girls and three and five year-old boys.

As a matter of fact, shichi-go-san literally means “seven-five-three.”

The children at those ages in kimono go to shrine with their family and eat chitose-ame which is a long stick hard candy symbolizing healthy growth and longevity.

The candies are in a bag with a crane and a turtle on it.

Both animals represent long life in Japan.

It’s said hat the custom has over 1000 years of history and started to be commonly celebrated by Meiji era (1868-1912).

While many families still follow the traditional shichi-go-san, some families just dress up and take pictures at a photo studio.

This is JAPAN Style!

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