Dogs and cats became the center of attention at this year's traditional 'Shichi-Go-San' festival in Tokyo, dressed in colorful kimonos. This ceremony, traditionally held to celebrate the growth of children at the ages of 3, 5, and 7, was executed differently this year, reflecting cultural changes in Japanese society.
Celebrating Pets
During the ceremony held at a Shinto shrine, a priest performed a blessing ritual for several dogs and cats by reciting prayers and waving a special wooden staff. This ceremony, traditionally reserved for children, has now become a representation of the changing family structure in Japan. The owners of these pets believe that pets have become an inseparable part of the family and deserve the same attention and respect.
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Shoko Kodama, a 46-year-old doctor who brought her 5-year-old cat 'Amber' to the ceremony, stated that she spent 2 months sewing a handmade red kimono for her pet. Referring to her emotional attachment to 'Amber', she said: 'The presence of this animal makes many hardships in life bearable for me.'
Social and Cultural Changes
Officials at the shrine noted that the changing family structure in Japan has led more people without children or with independent children to accept dogs and cats as family members. Since the early 2000s, this shrine has welcomed hundreds of pet-owning families each year to participate in this festival.
Official statistics show that Japan's fertility rate reached its lowest historical level last year. With an average age close to 50 years, the country has one of the oldest populations in the world. In such circumstances, pets play the role of children, companions, and sources of unconditional love for many Japanese.
These social changes not only reflect a deeper understanding of human relationships and the importance of coexistence with animals but also symbolize a transformation in the cultural values of society. It seems that this festival has become a new tradition not only to celebrate children but also to honor pets.
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