#Japan #Tokyo #fotowa #Shichi-Go-San #RENCA

Introduction to the Shichi-Go-San Project 2025

On October 20, an inspiring initiative known as the Shichi-Go-San Project 2025 kicked off, aiming to bring joy to children living in orphanages across Japan. Organized by fotowa, a family-oriented photography platform operated by Pixsta Inc., and RENCA, a costume rental service, the project promises to provide both professional photography and beautiful costumes at no cost to the children participating.

Project Overview

This project is designed to help ensure that children, regardless of their circumstances, can create heartwarming memories during the traditional Shichi-Go-San celebration. This event, which honors the growth of children at the ages of three, five, and seven, is usually an important milestone for families. However, many children in care facilities may not have the opportunity to participate fully due to financial constraints or lack of access to necessary resources. This project aims to address that gap, allowing these children to cherish this special day just as families do across the nation.

The application period for this year's project extends from October 20 to November 3, beginning with a first-come, first-served approach to applications. The selected facilities will receive free photography and costumes for the children celebrating Shichi-Go-San. It's essential for representatives of the facilities with children who meet the criteria to register on fotowa’s platform to apply.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligible participants are those children residing in care facilities who are celebrating their Shichi-Go-San this year. Each facility can apply for five children without any upper limit on participant numbers; however, larger groups may require additional discussions regarding costume and photography logistics. The online application can be filled out on the dedicated campaign website, which outlines further details and eligibility requirements.

A 5-Year Journey of Memories

Originally launched in 2021, the Shichi-Go-San Project arose from the desire to extend the beautiful tradition of Shichi-Go-San to children who face various challenges in their lives. Since its inception, the project has grown steadily. In its first year, the project served 14 children across five facilities, and participation numbers have risen annually.
In 2022, 12 children from two facilities participated, and in 2023, 18 children from three facilities were photographed. The previous year welcomed an impressive 21 children from two facilities, bringing the total to 65 children documented through this initiative. The heartfelt appreciation from parents and caregivers continues to reaffirm the impact that these precious moments have on the young lives involved.

Last year, one caregiver remarked, "We were concerned about how the children would react, but thanks to the photographer's gentle and fun demeanor, they quickly showed their true personalities. We now have countless joyful photos of them being their lively selves." This feedback exemplifies the project's success in capturing memories that children can cherish for a lifetime.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As the program continues into its fifth year, the team is excited about providing memories that children can reflect on in adulthood. They are committed to ensuring that joyful moments, embodied in pictures, remain an integral part of the children's lives. RENCA and fotowa are continuing their cooperation, believing wholeheartedly that the joyful memories captured today will empower these children in the future.

About fotowa

fotowa stands as a unique platform that connects parents and children with professional photographers, ensuring accessible, simple photography solutions tailored to individual preferences. Covering services from maternity shoots to milestone celebrations such as birthdays, and Shichi-Go-San, fotowa captures family memories across Japan. High-quality service at a clear price point makes fotowa a go-to choice for families wishing to document treasured moments.

For those interested in this heartfelt initiative, more information, including application details, can be found on the campaign's website: Shichi-Go-San Project 2025. Together, we can help these children create memories that will last for a lifetime.