Coming of Age Day

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Coming of Age Day (“Seijin no Hi”) in Japan is a national public holiday that’s recognized on the second Monday of January and celebrates all those who will be entering the legal age of adulthood—age 18—between April 2 of the past year and April 1 of the current year. (It should be noted that until 2022, the legal age of adulthood in Japan was 20—so some regions still celebrate people turning 20 on Coming of Age Day.)

Though similar celebrations took place as long ago as 714 AD, modern Coming of Age Day traditions date back to 1948, when public sentiment was low after the events of WWII. Coming of Age Day ceremonies are typically held in government buildings, like city halls or schools, where government officials and other public figures (which may include celebrities) give speeches. Media and photographers are often in attendance to capture photos of the attendees, most of whom dress well for the occasion. Traditionally, men wear a traditional montsuki haori hakama (though many have recently begun to favor a formal suit and tie.) Women typically wear a furisode, a traditional and elaborate type of dress that is often put on at a beauty salon (where women will also have their hair styled). In many cases, traditional clothing (for both men and women) is passed down through one’s family.

After the main celebration, many families visit local shrines to pray for a healthy and successful adulthood. Later on, new adults may attend afterparties at bars, clubs, and restaurants.

How to prepare:

In observance of Coming of Age Day, our offices will be closed on [insert date]. Please turn on your out of office message before leaving for the holiday.

How to observe Coming of Age Day:

Coming of Age Day is an opportunity to celebrate all the friends, family, and Japanese citizens that have recently come of age—or will come of age in the next few months. While there are a variety of ways to observe Coming of Age Day, some ideas include:

• Attend a Coming of Age Day celebration
• Wish new adults a happy and healthy coming of age
• Reflect on your own coming of age—and the lessons you’ve learned in adulthood