Seijin Shiki Japanese Coming of Age Day

Seijin No Hi is a celebration which is held every year on the second Monday in the month of January. Coming of Age Ceremonies or Seijin Shiki are held all over Japan at local and prefectural offices, and after parties organised among family members and close friends to congratulate all young people who reached the age of adulthood, i.e. 20 years during the past year.

Origins of Seijin Shiki

Seijin Shiki has it's origins in 8th century AD when a young prince celebrated his arrival into adulthood by wearing new robes and a nice hairstyle.

The celebration was established in modern Japan in 1948, and used to be held on the 15th of January. It was changed to second Monday of January in the year 2000.

Dress Worn During Seijin Shiki

Young Girls usually wear very expensive kimonos, some of which cost 1 million Japanese Yen or more. Yound Men on the other hand wear a regular suit and tie, though some prefer to wear the traditional japanese kimono.

Enjoying Adulthood after Seijin Shiki

Seijin Shiki is an official confirmation of a young individual becoming an adult. While adulthood does come with it's share of responsibilities it also means that they can now drive legally, and indulge in vices like drinking, smoking, gambling, and visiting hostess bars.

The preferred style of Kimonos worn by young ladies during Seijin Shiki is Furisode, i.e. Kimono with long sleeves.

The high cost forces many of them to rent the Kimonos. Many young ladies find it difficult to put on a kimono by themselves and visit beauty salons to dress pretty for Seijin Shiki.