This Japanese Celebration Turns San Diego Kids Into Royal Stars

The Japanese Friendship Garden is rolling out the red carpet for San Diego‘s tiniest stars with its dazzling Shichi-Go-San celebration. Think stunning kimonos, enchanted garden backdrops, and enough cuteness to melt hearts across the city.

Shichi-Go-San celebration

A Treasured Tradition Comes to Life

Shichi-Go-San (that’s “seven-five-three” for those keeping count) isn’t just any photo shoot—it’s a centuries-old Japanese celebration that’s found its way to sunny San Diego.

This magical tradition celebrates kiddos ages three and seven (girls) and five (boys), decking them out in gorgeous kimonos and blessing them with all the good vibes.

JFGM

Picture Perfect Magic

Professional photographers are ready to capture the adorable overload in one of San Diego’s most stunning settings. Each session promises at least 20 frame-worthy shots that’ll have everyone saying “kawaii!” (that’s “cute” in Japanese).

The garden welcomes each little star and two family members, with tasty refreshments to keep the energy flowing.

Royal Treatment Without the Royal Price Tag

JFG Members can snag this cultural extravaganza for $190, while non-members can join the fun for $210 (kimono rental is extra—because looking this good takes a little more investment).

The whole experience includes garden admission, professional photos, and enough magical moments to fill a storybook.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Making Dreams Reality

Pick a date and make payment, fill out the 2024 Shichigosan Registration Waiver here, and submit the Kimono Rental Form. For kimono rentals, contact Yuko Niwa at yukoniwa@gmail.com.

See you there!

The Shichi-Go-San celebration is happening at the Japanese Friendship Garden (2125 Park Blvd., Ste. #2, San Diego) on Saturday, November 2, and Sunday, November 3, from 9 AM to 3 PM.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Event
Event Details
  • Start Date
    November 2, 2024 9:00 am
  • End Date
    November 3, 2024 3:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Japanese Friendship Garden
  • Address
    2215 Pan American E Rd, San Diego, CA 92101
Event Map
The Latest
Old Town Fiestas Patrias
Fiestas Patrias is back at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, and this year’s lineup makes a strong case for rearranging your Saturday. The...
California Wine Month
September is when Temecula stops being a day trip you keep meaning to take and starts being the point. Harvest is on, nearly 50 wineries...
things to do in san diego in september
September is packed with reasons to get out and explore San Diego! Indulge in world-class flavors at the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival, enjoy...
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Uncover the balboa theatre haunted happenings and enjoy a thrilling night filled with classic films and ghostly ambiance.
Punjab-inspired imagery from Rupinder Kaloti The Gathering exhibition
Oceanside Museum of Art is hosting the museum debut of Punjabi-American artist Rupinder “Rupy” Kaloti, and The Gathering is exactly the kind of show that...
Sunset Cliffs Auto Show
San Diego’s most scenic car show is back, and it’s bringing classic cars, custom builds, and hot rods right to the coast in Ocean Beach...
Event Details
  • Start Date
    November 2, 2024 9:00 am
  • End Date
    November 3, 2024 3:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Japanese Friendship Garden
  • Address
    2215 Pan American E Rd, San Diego, CA 92101
Upcoming Events
MANIA The ABBA Tribute bringing the magic of ABBA to life at The Magnolia
February 10, 2027
7:30 pm
  • The Magnolia
If you’ve ever wanted to relive the magic of ABBA live on stage, MANIA: The ABBA Tribute is as close as it gets. The world’s...
November 1, 2026
12:00 pm
  • San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art is throwing a taco party in its sculpture garden, and honestly, it’s one of the most fun things on...
Halloween at the Station
October 25, 2026
12:00 pm
  • Ingram Plaza
Liberty Station is throwing its annual Halloween bash, and it’s free, family-friendly, and packed with enough activities to fill your whole afternoon. Costumes are strongly...
Celebrate the Craft festival at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
October 18, 2026
11:30 am
  • The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Celebrate the Craft is back for its 23rd year, and honestly, it just keeps getting better. This is The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ signature culinary...
Bird's Eye View of Mission Bayfest
October 16, 2026
3:00 pm
  • Mariners Point
Mission Bayfest is heading back to the waterfront this fall, bringing three days of reggae, rock, and SoCal vibes to Mariner’s Point Park along the...
Event Search: