Coming of Age Day in Japan

Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi) is a Japanese holiday held annually on the second Monday of January. It celebrates young people who have reached the age of 20, which is considered the age of adulthood in Japan.

History

The tradition dates back over a thousand years. The original celebration was called Genpuku, where young men would receive new adult names and hairstyles to mark their passage into adulthood. The modern form of the celebration has been observed since 1948, when it became a national holiday.

Traditions

• Ceremonies: Local government offices hold coming-of-age ceremonies (seijin-shiki), where speeches are made, and gifts are given to the new adults.
• Attire: Women often wear long-sleeved kimonos (furisode), which signify that they are single and eligible for marriage, while men typically wear suits; however, some opt for traditional attire such as a hakama.
• Hair and Makeup: Many women visit salons for professional hair styling and makeup application to complement their kimonos.
• Photography: Professional photo sessions are common as families want to capture this significant milestone.

What People Do

On Coming of Age Day, newly recognized adults may attend the official ceremonies before spending time with family and friends. It's a day for reflection on one's responsibilities and rights as an adult. After the formal events, celebrations often continue with parties or gatherings in restaurants or homes.

The day serves as a rite of passage and an opportunity for society to acknowledge and encourage young adults as contributing members with fresh responsibilities towards themselves and their community.