Coming of Age Day
成人の日
A national holiday celebrating people who have reached adulthood, often marked by formal ceremonies and kimono.
- This year
- Jan 12 (Mon)
- Second Monday of January
History
Coming of Age ceremonies have roots in genpuku rites for young aristocrats. Modern 成人式 ceremonies spread after World War II. Seijin no Hi became a national holiday in 1948 (originally January 15). In 2000 it moved to the second Monday of January under the Happy Monday System, creating a long weekend. The legal age of adulthood was lowered to 18 in 2022, but many municipalities still celebrate those turning 20.
How it is observed
Cities hold ceremonies for new adults. Women often wear furisode kimono; men may wear suits or hakama. Photo sessions and parties follow in shopping districts.
Travel tips
You may see groups in formal kimono near stations and photo studios, especially in mid-sized cities. Some venues book out for ceremonies — check local event calendars if you want to photograph celebrations respectfully from public spaces.
Related shrines & temples
Places often visited around this day — open a shrine page or search the directory.