Coming of Age Day in Japan

Coming of Age Day Ceremony

A major highlight on this day is the extravagant appearances and clothes worn by the attendees of the ceremonies. The attendees follow a specific dress code. While women in the Western countries wear debutante gowns once in their lifetime, the women in Japan likely to dress in the same fashion during the celebration of the Coming of Age Day.

Furisode, Traditional Clothes for Japanese Women

Japanese women usually wear a ‘furisode’, a type of kimono that has long sleeves. Since this type of clothes are a bit complicated to put on, the ladies would prepare early in the morning and have some people help them dress up, at the same time, help them have their hair and make-up done. It is said that a furisode would cost around 1 million yen (which is around $10,000 USD). Considering how expensive it is, most of the female attendees would either rent out these clothes from rental shops or just borrow from their family members or relatives who owned such fancy dresses. Those who can probably afford would purchase one just for this ceremony.

Hakama, Traditional Clothes for Japanese Men

Japanese men, on the other hand, doesn’t necessarily need to put on the traditional clothes. Although some of them would still wear the traditional male kimono called ‘hakama’, majority of them would often wear the western-type of clothes (suit & tie).

Many people are drawn to join the celebration of Coming of Age Day in Japan since the attendees are definitely a sight to behold. The event usually starts at 11:30am throughout the country. Important figures like the City Mayor himself and other relevant people would normally give out speeches to congratulate and welcome the youth to adulthood. Presents are also prepared to be given to the attendees. In addition, a lot of photos are also expected to be taken given the fact of how everyone is extravagantly dressed up. Some of the most popular Coming of Age Ceremonies are those held in Tokyo, specifically in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Nakano Ward Offices. The places mentioned are usually covered by the media during the celebration.

Live Music and Performances

There are quite a number of festivities observed on this day as well. Street performers are found everywhere and there are even live music or performances arranged for the people to enjoy. While others may take part on these activities, there are also those who would go for a shrine visit to pray once the formalities are over. Other Japanese also prefer to have some after-parties and continue the celebration at home. Food and drinks are served among family members, relatives, and friends. Some of the treats served are mini-cakes, Japanese snacks (ex. Sake Kit Kats, Otona no Amasa Kit Kats, and Japanese Kit Kats Party Box), and the Izakaya-Inspired snacks, which is famous in Japan when food and drinks are served during a celebration.