Coming of Age Day
A day to congratulate and encourage young people who have reached adulthood
Seijin no Hi (Coming of Age Day) is a national holiday currently held on the second Monday of January. Its purpose is "to congratulate and encourage youth who have become adults and become aware of their new responsibilities."
Background and Historical Context
Established in 1948, it was originally fixed on January 15th, coinciding with the Lunar New Year's Koshogatsu (Little New Year), a traditional day for coming-of-age ceremonies (Genpuku) in ancient times. In 2000, the "Happy Monday System" moved the holiday to the second Monday of January to create a three-day weekend.
Coming of Age Ceremonies
Local governments across Japan host Seijin-shiki (Coming of Age ceremonies) for residents turning adult age. Women typically wear elaborate, long-sleeved kimonos called furisode, while men wear formal suits or traditional hakama. With the legal age of adulthood lowered from 20 to 18 in 2022, many municipalities continue to invite 20-year-olds to avoid clashing with university entrance exams.