🎏 3. Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi): Celebrating the Journey to Adulthood
Seijin no Hi, or Coming of Age Day, is celebrated on the second Monday of January, honoring young people who have turned 20, the legal age of adulthood in Japan. This significant rite of passage is marked by formal ceremonies held at local government offices, where participants receive speeches about their new responsibilities as adults.
Young women often wear elaborate furisode kimonos with long, flowing sleeves, while men may choose traditional hakama or Western suits. After the ceremonies, families and friends gather to celebrate with special meals and photo sessions. Seijin no Hi is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of Japanese society’s value on maturity, respect, and community.