How is Coming of Age Day Celebrated in Japan? | Guided tours of Japan
Credit: Japan Wonder Travel Blog (People wearing Kimono to celebrate their coming of age day)
In Japan, Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi) is celebrated on the second Monday of January to honor young adults who turn 20, the legal age of adulthood. This day is a milestone that signifies the transition from adolescence to adulthood, marking new responsibilities such as voting, drinking alcohol, and being considered a full member of society
Ceremonies and Events
The main event on Coming of Age Day is the Seijin Shiki (成人式), a formal ceremony held in cities and towns across Japan. Local governments host these ceremonies, where newly-turned 20-year-olds are congratulated by officials, often including mayors or governors. These speeches emphasize the importance of adulthood and encourage young adults to reflect on their new role in society. The ceremonies are often accompanied by performances or cultural presentations.
Traditional Attire
One of the most distinctive features of Coming of Age Day is the attire worn by participants. Young women typically wear furisode (振袖), a formal kimono with long sleeves, often in vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The kimono is a symbol of youth and unmarried status, and many women also visit beauty salons to have their hair styled elaborately for the event. Young men, on the other hand, may wear hakama, a traditional garment consisting of wide-legged trousers worn over a kimono, or a modern suit. Both genders often accessorize with items like decorative pins or ties to complete their outfits.
Celebrations and Traditions
After the formal ceremonies, many young adults gather with family and friends to celebrate. Parties and social gatherings are common, where the new adults enjoy food, drinks, and good company. It’s also a time for families to take photographs, capturing the new adults in their traditional attire.
Many young people also visit temples or shrines on Coming of Age Day to offer gratitude for the support they’ve received from their families and communities. This is a moment for reflection, where they may pray for their future success and well-being.
Gifts and Tokens
It is customary for family members to give gifts to the new adults on Coming of Age Day. These gifts can range from money to more personal items, such as commemorative books or jewelry, to mark this important milestone. These tokens symbolize the passing of time and the transition into adulthood.
Reflecting on Adulthood
Coming of Age Day offers young adults a chance to reflect on their responsibilities as they officially step into adulthood. It is a day of both celebration and introspection, as the newly adult individuals are encouraged to consider their roles in society and the challenges they will face in the future.
Regional Variations
While Coming of Age Day is celebrated across Japan, the way it is observed can vary by region. Larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka may host grander ceremonies, sometimes with thousands of participants, while smaller towns might have more intimate gatherings. Despite these differences, the overall theme of responsibility and community remains the same.
Coming of Age Day is a significant cultural event in Japan, celebrating the transition to adulthood with ceremony, tradition, and personal reflection. Whether through formal rituals, festive gatherings, or quiet moments of reflection, the day emphasizes the importance of new beginnings and the responsibilities that come with adulthood. It remains one of Japan’s most cherished holidays, marking a signifacant moment in the lives of young adults.
Connect with us!