How in Japan dogs in kimonos are blessed in the temple instead of children
Traditionally performed for young children to pray for health and happiness, the Shichi-go-san ceremony is now gaining popularity among pet owners. And all because in modern Japan, dogs and cats are receiving more and more attention against the backdrop of a sharp drop in the birth rate.
In Japan, a country with rich traditions and a deep respect for ritual, a surprising change in the perception of family traditions is taking place. Thus, the Shichi-go-san ceremony, an ancient ceremony designed to ensure the health and happiness of young children, is transformed into something new. With the decline in the number of births in modern Japan, more attention and care is being given to pets, and today many Japanese celebrate this ceremony for their four-legged friends.
Shichi-go-san is a traditional holiday and festival in Japan, timed every year on November 15 (in cold Hokkaido - a month earlier - on October 15). On this day, five- and three-year-old boys, as well as seven- and three-year-old girls, are dressed in festive clothes and taken to Shinto shrines.
This ritual symbolizes the important stages of a child's growth and is a celebration of health and well-being. However, in modern Japan, where many families prefer to have pets instead of children, traditional rituals take on new meaning.
The Japanese attitude towards animals is colored with special tenderness. In general, Japanese culture is characterized by a deep respect for nature and animals. This is reflected in many aspects of their lives, from religious beliefs and mythology to everyday practices.
Japan also has a widespread pet culture, especially dogs and cats, which are treated with great love and care. In modern Japan, pets are often seen not just as pets, but as full members of the family. This attitude is evident in many aspects of Japanese life. For example, it is a common practice here to celebrate the birthdays of pets, as well as to organize holidays for them.
At the same time, in modern Japan there is a significant decline in the birth rate and a simultaneous aging of the population. This is one of the main social problems of the country. The birth rate has fallen to critically low levels, making Japan one of the fastest-aging countries in the world. Japan's aging population impacts every aspect of life, from the economy to everyday culture and politics.
As you can see in the photo, dog owners now dress their pets in traditional kimonos or other festive outfits and bring them to temples to participate in blessing rituals. The ceremony for pets, like the traditional ceremony for children, includes prayers for their health and long life.
This reinterpretation of the tradition reflects changes in the social structure and values of modern Japanese society, where the care and attention to pets has become increasingly important. Thus, the Shichi-go-san ceremony, undergoing its re-interpretation, continues to be an important element of the cultural life of Japan, emphasizing the constant love and respect for living beings, whether human or animal.