Coming-Of-Age-Day in Japan

Coming -of–Age-Day in Japan

Monday, January 14, 2013

 

Today, on 14^th January, is the Holiday in Japan for the Coming of Age Day called in Japanese -Seijin No Hi which is celebrated on second Monday of the Year. The day is celebrated to welcome and encourage Young people who have or will attain the age 20 whose 20th birthday falls between April 2 of the previous year and April 1 of the current year.The celebration reflects both the expanded rights and increased responsibilities. Eligible youths are invited by local municipal and prefectural offices in a function which is addressed by an invited distinguished Guest from Government or Academic organization. Attendees also receive some gift from the organizers. Youths participate in the celebration called Seijin-shiki dressed  in traditional dresses; boys generally in suit and girls in special kimono. Speakers generally remind young people of their responsibilities as adult and urge them to grow into a responsible citizen.

It may be recalled that the holiday was first established in 1948 and was held every year on January 15 until 1999 when in recognition of happy Monday it is celebrated on second Monday of the year. The new thrust of Coming- of- Age- Day celebration was started after World War II to boost the morale of depressed, disappointed and frustrated youths returning from military duties. In Japan , celebration of adulthood was celebrated in many ways( without age fixation) such as ability to recitation of Buddha sutra or able to lift certain measures of weight etc. The festivity of Seijin-shiki is worth witnessing which, indeed, is full of thrill and excitements. Adults generally take part in parties organized after the official celebrations. They are now legally allowed to drink in parties.  It is interesting to note that in Japan , girls are allowed to marry at age 16 and boys at age 18. But,  decision of marriages at these ages require approval from parents. However, after achieving adulthood, they are free to take decision of their marriage. Also, young people after age 20 are eligible to vote in political elections.

 In present day society of Japan, kids have graduation ceremonies for primary school (shougakkou), junior high school (chuugakkou) and high school (koukou).

 

Japanese girls dressed in Kimonos and Boys in suits on Coming of Age day celebration.