Coming of Age Day

Coming of Age Day, known in Japan as Seijin no Hi (成人の日), is a national holiday observed on the second Monday of January; in 2026, it falls on January 12. Established as a public holiday in 1948 during Japan’s postwar reconstruction, the day was intended to honor young people entering adulthood and to encourage them to recognize their responsibilities as members of society. Its modern origins are often associated with an older regional custom from Saitama Prefecture, where a ceremony for young people was held after the war and helped inspire a nationwide observance.

Japan lowered the legal age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in April 2022, following reforms to the Civil Code. Nevertheless, most municipalities continue to invite people who are around 20 years old to their traditional ceremonies, partly because 18-year-olds are typically preparing for university entrance examinations or beginning employment. As a result, many local governments now use names such as Coming-of-Age Ceremony or “20-Year-Old Celebration,” while the national holiday itself remains Coming of Age Day. The occasion therefore combines legal change with a deeply established cultural milestone centered on independence, gratitude, and civic responsibility.

Municipal coming-of-age ceremonies, often held in city halls, cultural centers, or large public venues, are the central tradition. Participants listen to speeches from local officials, receive messages from community representatives, and make pledges or statements about their future roles in society. Many attend with school friends and reunite with classmates, making the event both a civic observance and an important social gathering. Families commonly take commemorative photographs before or after the ceremony, and some participants visit Shinto shrines to offer prayers for health, success, and a promising future.

Women frequently wear elaborate furisode, the long-sleeved formal kimono traditionally associated with unmarried young women, while men may wear a dark suit or formal hakama. Professional hair styling, makeup, kimono dressing, and photography are often arranged months in advance. Celebratory meals vary by family and region, and may include sushi, sashimi, tempura, seasonal dishes, and celebratory sweets rather than a single nationwide menu. Common greetings include “Seijin omedetō gozaimasu” (成人おめでとうございます), meaning “Congratulations on becoming an adult,” and wishes for continued growth, happiness, and success.