Happy Coming of Age Day
Today (2nd Monday in Japan) is Coming of Age Day, where the country celebrates all those who are turning 20
All across Japan 20-year olds will dress in Kimonos, or suits (I'm always disappointed to see them not wearing Kimonos)
Coming of Age
Many will return to their hometown and reunite with their friends from elementary and high school (provided they still claim residency in the area -- usually their parents and, or grandparents live there), take photos and listen to speeches from locals of importance.
The pay off is, after the festivities it will be time to go drinking.
At 20, they can also smoke, vote in elections, and get married without parental approval
Unfortunately, with covid and the like, many events will either be very subdued, or possibly cancelled
As a note, Coming of Age Day celebrates those who turn 20 from April 2, of the previous year and April 1 of the New Year
Starting of April 2 of this year some areas may change the event to when they turn 19. Personally, I think it's a bad idea unless they are going to change the age restrictions as well. What's the purpose of doing a ceremony celebrating you are an adult if you don't get any of the benefits?
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