Coming of Age Day

On the second Monday of every January, the Japanese celebrate the Coming of Age Day to all young adult who have reached the age of 20 or will reach the age of 20 by April 1st. Think of it as a Sweet Sixteen except that it is celebrated by both sexes and not just girls and, of course, it is celebrated by everyone on the same day.

There are actual ceremonies that are held on that morning at most local city offices throughout Japan. Government officials will give a speech before the assembled new adults and present them with small gifts. It is also traditional for them to receive presents or money from their parents.

The holiday dates back to around AD700 and is held to remind the new adults of not only their expanded rights, but also of the increased responsibilities that are now expected of them. Up until 2000, the holiday was held on every January 15th, but from then on it was changed to the second Monday so the youths could enjoy some of that "three-day weekend" action.

Some women celebrate the day by wearing furisode, a type of kimono while men usually just wear suits in observation. Since it is very difficult to properly wear a kimono, most women will make an appointment at the beauty salon to get their hair done and the employees will help them put on the kimono, which are usually rented for the day or borrowed since kimonos are outrageously expensive. After the celebration the new adults usually get together and go to parties or go out drinking.

Just pray that they don't spill any beer on the furisode.