A special ceremony to pray for the baby's growth
The traditional "weaning ceremony" held around the 100th day of a child's life is an important ceremony in which the baby is made to imitate feeding for the first time, with the hope that he or she will have no trouble eating for the rest of his or her life. Also known as "Momoka no iwai (100-day celebration)," this is a custom that has been handed down in Japan since ancient times.
1. let's learn the basics of weaning ceremony
When to do it?
Generally, this is done between the 100th and 120th day of life. Choose a reasonable schedule according to your baby's physical condition and your family's availability.
Who to do it with?
Although it is common for families to hold the ceremony together, grandparents and relatives are sometimes invited to join in the grand celebration. The "chopstick bearer," who carries the food during the ceremony, is usually the oldest person present at the ceremony to honor his or her longevity, but recently it is often done by the parents. For boys, it is a male role, and for girls, it is a female role.


2. menu for weaning ceremony and what to prepare
Basics of festive meals
- one soup, three dishesThe basic of Japanese food: rice with soup and three side dishes.
- Sekihan (red rice)A must-have dish for celebratory occasions.
- Grilled sea breamA good omen for a festive occasion.
- food cooked by boiling or stewingThe vegetables are colorful, using seasonal vegetables, taro, lotus root, and other vegetables.
- clear broth soup, with ingredients and garnish floating in and on itThe name of the ceremony is also a symbol of hope for the healthy growth of the baby.
- pickled vegetablesPickles, etc.
What to prepare
- Catering and tableware for babiesLacquered ones are considered official.
- Teething stone: A stone that wishes for the growth of strong teeth. It is often picked up during a shrine visit or given at a shrine.
- Celebration chopsticks (iwai-bashi)Chopsticks made of willow wood with tapered ends.
Tsukiji Jisaku offers a weaning ceremony plan where you can leave everything to us.
How to proceed with the weaning ceremony
- Ritual PreparationThe baby's mood is good.
- Ceremony by Chopstick ActorThe person playing the chopstick role brings the food to the baby's mouth and imitates feeding the food to the baby. It is important to "imitate" feeding the baby, rather than actually feeding him or her.
- ceremony to mark the end of a wrestler's first bout with his belt: Touch the teething stone with the festive chopsticks and gently place the chopsticks on the baby's gums, wishing for strong teeth.
4. what to wear?
Dressing the baby in a kimono or Hakama romper and your family in formal attire on the first day of weaning will make the occasion more memorable. It will also look good in photos, so be prepared to leave a memorable picture.
5. advantages of using the weaning ceremony plan
If preparing for the weaning ceremony at home is too difficult, we recommend using a weaning ceremony plan from a hotel or restaurant. They will help you create the best memories for your family with authentic celebratory meals prepared by professional chefs and private rooms where you can relax in a private space.
summary
The weaning ceremony is a wonderful and unique Japanese cultural event to wish for the growth of your child. Please do not get too caught up in the formality of the ceremony, but celebrate your baby with warmth and love of your family.