Shinto Ceremony, Saipan, October 2012

Katori Shrine at the Sugar King Park was the site of a Shinto ceremony on Saturday October 20, 2012. This was the 27th celebration at that location, since it was rebuilt in 1984. See the Tribune article for further history: http://www.saipantribune.com/newsstory.aspx?newsID=103969&cat=1 The children participated in "Shichi Go San" , which means "Seven Five Three". Girls of age three and seven and boys of age three and five are celebrated on Shichigosan, and it is prayed for their good health and growth. Shichigosan usually takes place in November but is not a national holiday. The ceremony is celebrated in a Shinto Shrine, with the children dressed up in kimono. Odd numbers are considered lucky numbers. Long candies in bags that are decorated with turtles and cranes are given to the children. The candy, the crane, and the turtle, all symbolize longevity. Hope you enjoy seeing the photos. Jack Hardy