If you’ve ever seen groups of young women in stunning, long-sleeved kimonos and men in sharp suits or traditional hakama, you’ve witnessed one of Japan’s most beautiful holidays. Here’s everything you need to know about this milestone. What is Mature’s Day?
But once the formalities are over? The real fun begins. New "adults" head to shrines to pray for success, snap thousands of photos with friends they haven't seen since high school, and eventually head out for dinner and drinks to toast their new status. The Spirit of the Holiday matures fucking day
The celebration usually starts at the local city hall with the ( Seijin-shiki ). Local officials give speeches, small gifts are handed out, and there’s a heavy emphasis on the duties of being a contributing member of society. If you’ve ever seen groups of young women
Mature’s Day, or Seijin no Hi , is more than just a party. It’s a rite of passage. Historically, it marks the point where young people officially enter adulthood, gaining new rights—and new responsibilities. While the legal age in Japan was recently lowered to 18, many municipalities still hold the ceremonies for 20-year-olds to allow them to celebrate alongside their peers. The Style: Furisode and Beyond The most iconic part of the day is the fashion. But once the formalities are over
Becoming Adult: A Guide to Celebrating Mature’s Day (Seijin no Hi)
Every second Monday of January, the streets of Japan transform into a living runway of tradition and celebration. It’s —the official "coming of age" ceremony for everyone who turned (or will turn) 18 or 20 during the school year.
Young women typically wear furisode , a style of kimono with very long sleeves. These are often incredibly vibrant, decorated with intricate floral patterns, and paired with white faux-fur stoles to keep warm in the January chill.