Seijin no Hi: Japan's Coming of Age Day

A National Celebration for 20-Year-Olds

Seijin no Hi, or Coming of Age Day, is a national holiday in Japan that marks the transition from adolescence to adulthood for those who have turned 20 years old in the past year. It is a day of celebration and recognition for the young adults who have reached this important milestone.

Origins and Meaning

Seijin no Hi has its origins in the ancient Japanese tradition of genpuku, a ceremony that marked the passage from childhood to adulthood. In the mid-19th century, genpuku was replaced by Seijin Shiki, a more formalized ceremony that included a speech from the mayor and gifts from family and friends.

The modern form of Seijin no Hi was established in 1948 as a national holiday. It is held annually on the second Monday of January, and all those who have turned 20 in the past year are invited to participate in the celebrations.

Customs and Celebrations

Seijin no Hi is a day of great celebration in Japan. Young adults who have reached the age of 20 dress up in traditional kimono or formal attire and attend ceremonies held in their local city hall or community center. During the ceremony, they receive speeches from local officials and exchange gifts with their family and friends.

After the ceremony, many young adults continue the celebration with a meal with their family and friends. Some also participate in traditional activities such as visiting temples or shrines to pray for good fortune in their future.