Posted on: Monday, November 1, 2004

Japanese center offers sittings for kids' portraits

Advertiser Staff

Shichi Go San (which translates as "seven, five, three"), the annual occasion in which children dress in traditional attire and receive a blessing for long life, will be marked Nov. 14 with a portrait photography service offered through the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i.

The observance is named because of the custom of bringing girls, ages 3 and 7, and boys, ages 3 and 5, to be blessed at Shinto shrines every Nov. 15 or the closest weekend. In Hawai'i, this custom has evolved to include children of all ages.

Kimono and zori will be provided for the portrait. A reverend from the Izuma Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii will offer an optional Shinto blessing. Entire families are invited to dress in kimono for a group portrait with the children.

Cost is $70 per person; $56 per person for cultural center members. For more information or to make reservations, call 945-7633.