Frequently Asked Questions
Should Omiyamairi be postponed on a rainy day?
Not necessarily. Baby and mother’s health comes first; the shrine ceremony itself can proceed rain or shine since it is held inside the prayer hall. If outdoor commemorative photography is a priority, choosing a clear day is practical.
Is it better to buy or rent the celebratory robe?
Renting typically costs 10,000–30,000 yen; purchasing ranges from 50,000 to 200,000 yen. Since robe sizes often do not fit children for Shichigosan, many families find renting more practical given storage concerns.
Is it common for both sets of grandparents to attend?
Increasingly so. Many families use the post-ceremony meal as an opportunity for both sides to meet, especially if this is the first grandchild.
Can Omiyamairi be performed at a shrine other than the local ujigami shrine?
The traditional intention is to visit the local guardian deity, but it is entirely acceptable — and very common — to visit famous shrines like Meiji Jingu or Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Choose based on family preference and accessibility.
When is the best time for commemorative photography?
Before or after the prayer ceremony in the precincts is standard. Professional photographers specializing in shrine photography (shussatsu photographers) have become very popular; immediately after receiving the prayer offerings is a particularly photogenic moment.
Last updated: April 25, 2026