What is Coming of Age Day?

Coming of Age Day is a national holiday, held on the second Monday of January each year, that celebrates young people who have finally reached the age of adulthood.

According to the law concerning national holidays established by the Cabinet Office, it is a day to “celebrate new adults and encourage them to strive for an independent life”. On Coming of Age Day, various municipals hold ceremonies to celebrate a new beginning for these young adults and encourage them to realize their responsibilities and obligations as upcoming members of society. However, Coming of Age Day is not always necessarily held on the second Monday of January, as some regions of Japan hold the ceremony during the Obon festival or in spring, when many people can easily return to their hometowns.

What is an adult?

In Japan, it was stipulated by civil law that one would join the ranks of adults when they turn 20 years old. However, due to the revision of this civil law, from April 1, 2022, the age of adulthood was lowered from 20 to 18. Upon turning 18, individuals are able to make various contracts without parental consent, although drinking and smoking remain restricted to those aged 20 and over. Moreover, many municipals still continue to hold coming-of-age ceremonies for those who turn 20 within the given year.

Scenes from Coming of Age Ceremony

The scenes are very vibrant. International students turning 20 in Japan also receive invitations from the city. Be sure to participate!