Omiyamairi & Shichi-Go-San

Omiyamairi basics

Timing: around day 31-32 for boys, 32-33 for girls (with regional variation). In midsummer or midwinter, shifting the date for the baby's sake is completely fine
Where: the local guardian shrine, or the shrine where a safe delivery was prayed for
Who attends: tradition had the paternal grandmother carry the baby; today families arrange it freely

Ceremonial kimono (ubugi) or a baby dress - rentals are plentiful Find baby dresses
Hatsuho-ryo offering: 5,000-10,000 yen is typical; follow the shrine's posted amount if there is one. Envelope: red-and-white bow knot, inscribed 御初穂料, with the baby's name below the cord
Baby kit: formula, diapers, gauze, a change of clothes - and check nursing facilities beforehand
Family attire: the baby is the star; parents dress neatly one rank below the baby's ceremonial wear

Ages: 3 (boys and girls, or girls only, by region), 5 (boys), 7 (girls)
Timing: traditionally around November 15th; October-December dates avoiding the crowds, plus separate photo sessions, are now mainstream
Traditional or actual age: either is fine today; many families group siblings together

The child's outfit: kimono (hifu vest at 3, hakama at 5, obi kimono at 7) or Western formal - bought, rented or bundled with a studio plan Find Shichi-Go-San kimono
Hatsuho-ryo: 5,000-10,000 yen per child as a guide; written as for omiyamairi, with the child's name
Chitose-ame candy: often given at the blessing; an extra set for photos is a nice touch Find chitose-ame
Day-of kit: bandages and spare shoes for unfamiliar zori sandals, clips and a towel for kimono fixes, drinks and bite-size snacks that cannot stain

Check the blessing reception: reservation or walk-in, and whether the amount is posted
Mornings win: shrine, photos, then the celebratory meal - all before nap time
Separate photo days: a pre- or post-shoot dramatically lightens the child's load

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How much hatsuho-ryo should we offer?

5,000-10,000 yen is the common guide for both occasions; follow the shrine's posted amount where one exists.

How is the envelope written?

A red-and-white bow-knot envelope inscribed 御初穂料, with the child's (or baby's) name below the cord.

Exactly when is omiyamairi?

Around day 31-32 for boys and 32-33 for girls as a guide, with regional variation - and shifting for weather or the baby's condition is fine.

Traditional age or actual age for Shichi-Go-San?

Either. For the age-3 celebration, more families now use the actual age, considering the child's stamina in kimono.

Can Shichi-Go-San be held at a temple?

Yes - many temples offer Shichi-Go-San blessings. The envelope is then inscribed 御布施 or 御祈祷料.