On November 15th, Which you celebrate Traditional Event 753 Day, Humans or Pets?

Hi how are you? Today, November 15th, is a traditional Japanese event of 753.

What’s 7(shichi)・5(go)・3(san) ceremony?

We celebrate the growth of children who reach the milestone ages of 3, 5, and 7, and to give thanks to God　for their growing.

In today’s Japan, however, since the birthrate is falling, and many households are adopting pets such as dogs and cats.

As pets become more like family members, an increasing number of owners are celebrating 753 (Shichigosan) with their beloved pets.

First, let’s watch the video.

Widespread use of dog 753 as pets become family members

Shichi-Go-San is said to have begun in the Muromachi period (1336~1573), and spread widely throughout the country during the Edo period (1603~1868).

It is generally celebrated on November 15th, but as it is not a national holiday, in recent years visits to shrines and temples often take place on auspicious days in October or November, or on weekends and holidays.

At that time, medical care was not as advanced as it is today, and infant mortality was quite high.

Therefore, Shichigosan is an event where people visit shrines to give thanks for the growth of children who have safely reached the age of 3, 5, and 7, and to pray for longevity.

In the past, the meaning of having a dog was mainly for hunting or as a guard dog, but nowadays, more and more families are welcoming dogs as part of the family.

More and more owners are cherishing their beloved dogs like family members and holding Shichigosan to pray for their health and longevity.

Shrines also reflect the pet boom
There are shrines where you can visit for Shichigosan, and there are also shrines that will perform Shichigosan for your beloved dog, reflecting the requests of pet owners.

Originally, Japan is rich in diversity, with eight million gods, and there are shrines that pray for the peace of the souls of not only humans but also other living things.

It is nice that such shrines respond to the requests of owners who wish for the happiness of their pets.

Points to keep in mind when visiting shrines with dogs and Shichigosan

When you go to a shrine with your dog for the Shichigosan celebration, it is very important to be considerate of the sanctity of the shrine and other worshippers.

Shrines are places where gods reside and contain valuable cultural assets. Therefore, please follow the basic rules below to ensure that you can visit the shrine safely and comfortably with your dog.

★ Check the shrine rules in advance

First, it is important to check in advance whether the shrine allows dogs to enter. Some shrines prohibit pets from entering. Check the official website or call to confirm whether you can bring your dog before visiting.

★ Wearing manner wear

We recommend that you have your dog wear manner wear (diapers, etc.) to prevent your dog from making a mess in the shrine grounds. Shrines are sacred places, so care must be taken to avoid problems with excrement.

★ Use of leashes and dog management

When on the shrine grounds, keep your dog on a lead securely and keep it short so that it does not move around freely.

In order to avoid trouble with other worshippers and other dogs, you should be careful about your dog’s behavior.

Also, in crowded places, consider moving your dog safely by carrying it or using a pet cart.

★ Keep to the areas within the shrine grounds

At many shrines, it is prohibited to bring dogs around the main hall or inside the buildings.

When you arrive at the shrine, check the areas where dogs are allowed and the areas where they are not, and be sure to look carefully at the signs and signs.

★ Be careful not to bark unnecessarily

Shrines are places to worship quietly. Pay close attention to your dog’s unnecessary barking, and if your dog barks because he is excited, refrain from entering the grounds or take measures to help your dog relax.

★ Consideration for other worshippers

Some shrines are visited by people who don’t like dogs or have allergies. Be careful of your dog’s surroundings and keep it on a lead so that it doesn’t approach or jump on other worshippers without permission.

Especially if you have small children, you need to be careful because a sudden movement of the dog can startle them.

★ Avoid crowds

During busy times and seasons, there are many worshippers at the shrine, so if you bring your dog, there is a risk of trouble with other worshippers or the dog being stepped on.

Therefore, try to avoid crowded times as much as possible and visit in a calm environment.

Finally, another blog about 753 celebration “<a href=”https://japanophilia.xyz/7-5-3/” rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>7 (years old for girls), 5 (years for boys), and 3 (years for girls) 　 Rite of passage in life & fete day on November 15, 2020</a>” is well worth visiting, thanks