On this day, municipalities across the country hold ceremonies called Seijin-shiki. You will often see young women adorned in vibrant, long-sleeved furisode kimonos and men dressed in formal suits or traditional hakama, gathering to celebrate with friends and family.
Friend: ‘Kotoshi wa Seijin no Hi da ne! Kimono ga totemo kirei da.’
Meaning: ‘It’s Coming of Age Day this year! The kimonos are so beautiful.’
This tradition is a profound reflection of Japanese values regarding family, community, and the passage of time—similar to how the country honors its heritage through celebrations like Shichi-go-san. The day is not just a party; it is a serious commitment to the responsibilities of adulthood, rooted in a deep sense of Omoyari, or empathetic consideration for others, as they enter this new life phase.
