This is Sugii's parenting blog.
Some people do the Omiyamairi (shrine visit) around 30 days after birth, when they are incredibly busy with labor and water breaking → childbirth → hospital stay → newborn care.
In our case, we held the Omiyamairi on a Sunday the week after the 30-day mark, to accommodate both sets of parents' schedules.
Honestly, I vividly remember it being tough both physically and schedule-wise, from research to preparation. Lol
※The methods described here are just one example, so I would be happy if you could use them as a reference.
■Overview
・Lots of events until age 1
・Regarding the concept of "Omiyamairi"
■Contents
・Lots of events until age 1
→7 days after birth: Oshichiya (praying for healthy growth)
→30 days after birth: Omiyamairi (praying to the gods for safety and health)
→90 days after birth: Okuizome (praying for no trouble with food)
→6 months after birth: Half Birthday
→12 months after birth: First Birthday
From a husband's perspective, if you decide everything by yourself, there's a chance of conflict between spouses. Therefore, it's necessary to discuss and align your thoughts in advance.
It's also possible that the wife naturally does research in her daily life, encountering various information from friends and social media, leading her to "want to do things this way."
In such cases, I think it's good to research other options yourself, form your own opinion, and then make a decision.
Ultimately, if you prioritize your couple and your baby, your wife will also be happy.
By the way, I was too concerned about both sets of parents, which led to a disagreement.
・Regarding the concept of "Omiyamairi"
Omiyamairi is a Japanese custom, but by letting go of the idea that "Omiyamairi must be this way," you can make it an event that suits your family.
Many families choose to do either Omiyamairi or Okuizome.
About half do it just themselves, and about half invite both sets of grandparents.
Prioritize the baby's health and look for an easily accessible shrine to minimize their burden.
※Precautions
Be aware that some shrines have dress code restrictions.
It's best to call and confirm, as purifications might not be possible if there's a wedding on the same day.
While it's not mandatory to have a meal gathering after Omiyamairi, many families do it because just the shrine visit itself can feel a bit sparse.
Well then, please enjoy your life with your baby.