a special day for children

A local shrine in Saginomiya

In Japan, November 15th is a special day for children at the age of 3, 5 and 7 years old. They dress up in traditional Kimonos or in their best clothes, and visit a local shrine to pray for their good health and happiness.
They were carrying long, colorful paper bags. The bags are printed with crane and tortoise or pine tree, bamboo and plum.
All symbols of good luck. Inside are long pieces of red and white candy, the colors of good fortune.
The candy symbolizes parent’s wishes that their children will lead lengthy lives.