Historical Background
Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi) in Japan is a celebration deeply rooted in the nation's cultural and historical tapestry. While its modern incarnation is a public holiday held on the second Monday of January, its origins trace back centuries, reflecting the evolving social structures and values of Japanese society.
The concept of celebrating the transition to adulthood has ancient roots, with documented ceremonies dating as far back as 714 CE during the reign of Empress Genmei. These early rituals marked significant milestones in a young person's life, symbolizing their entry into the responsibilities and privileges of adulthood.
One such ancient ceremony, Genpuku (元服), emerged during Japan's classical Nara period (710–794 AD). Genpuku served as a formal rite of passage, signifying the transition from childhood to adulthood. Participants, predominantly aristocratic children, underwent symbolic changes such as adopting adult names, hairstyles, and clothing, alongside assuming adult responsibilities. Notably, the ceremony varied in form and significance depending on factors like gender, social status, and historical context.
During the Heian period (794–1185 AD), genpuku continued to hold sway, particularly among the aristocratic elite. These ceremonies were pivotal moments, granting individuals access to court positions and societal recognition. The process of preparation for adulthood, especially among male children, involved rigorous education in courtly etiquette, skills, and traditions.
With the advent of the samurai class in the late 12th century, genpuku rituals extended to this warrior caste. For samurai youths, the ceremony marked not only the assumption of adult responsibilities but also the receipt of swords and armor, symbolizing their readiness for martial duties and societal roles. Over time, the age at which genpuku occurred fluctuated, influenced by factors such as social stability and the need for military service.
The Muromachi period (1338–1573) witnessed the spread of genpuku beyond the aristocracy to encompass men and women from lower social ranks. This expansion reflected changing societal dynamics, as occupational roles and apprenticeships became integral to the transition to adulthood.
Fast forward to the aftermath of World War II, and the modern iteration of the Coming of Age Ceremony emerged from the ashes of despair. In 1946, the Youth Festival in Warabi Town, Saitama Prefecture, served as a beacon of hope for Japan's future. Inspired by this event, the Japanese government designated January 15 as Coming of Age Day in 1949, aiming to celebrate and encourage young people embarking on their adult lives.
Subsequent revisions to the National Holidays Law, such as the shift to the second Monday of January in 2000, ensured the widespread observance of the holiday. However, societal changes, including Japan's declining birth rate and shifting perceptions of adulthood, have posed challenges to the tradition's continuity.
Moreover, the lowering of the age of adulthood in 2018 sparked debates about the holiday's relevance and impact on cultural practices like the wearing of traditional garments. Despite these challenges, Coming of Age Day remains a cherished occasion, uniting generations in celebrating the journey from youth to adulthood and the promise of the future.
Minister Narihira’s Coming of Age by Chokosai Eisho, Japan, Edo period (1615–1868), c. 1790s. Woodblock print; ink and color on paper, Honolulu Museum of Art, © Chokosai Eisho via Wikipedia
Themes and Symbols in the Seijin No Hi
Traditional Dress: A central theme in the celebration of Seijin No Hi is the attire worn by participants, reflecting both cultural heritage and individual expression. Men often opt for formal traditional dress, such as the dark montsuki-haori-hakama ensemble, embodying a sense of elegance and maturity. Women, on the other hand, commonly don furisode adorned with homongi patterns, symbolizing femininity and grace.
Rites of Passage: Seijin No Hi ceremonies represent a significant rite of passage, marking the end of adolescence and the onset of adult responsibilities. The rituals conducted during the event, such as speeches by government officials and the presentation of commemorative gifts, underscore the societal recognition of individuals as mature adults.
Community and Identity: The celebration of Seijin No Hi fosters a sense of community and belonging among participants. As young adults gather at local city offices or school gyms for the ceremony, they share in a collective experience that transcends individual differences. The event serves as a reminder of the shared values and traditions that bind Japanese society together, reinforcing a sense of identity and unity.
Cultural Evolution and Adaptation: While rooted in tradition, Seijin No Hi ceremonies also reflect the evolving cultural landscape of modern Japan. The inclusion of Western formal wear alongside traditional attire highlights the influence of globalization and changing fashion trends. Moreover, the adaptation of the ceremony to accommodate regional variations and diverse eligibility criteria demonstrates Japan's commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity.
Economic and Social Dynamics: The celebration of Seijin No Hi has significant economic implications, particularly for industries related to fashion, beauty, and photography. The demand for formal attire, makeup services, and commemorative photos creates opportunities for businesses to thrive and innovate. However, the commercialization of the event also raises concerns about accessibility and affordability, especially for younger participants.
Generational Perspectives: Seijin No Hi ceremonies evoke differing perspectives among generations, reflecting shifting societal values and attitudes. While older generations may view the event as a solemn tradition steeped in cultural significance, younger participants may perceive it as a social gathering or fashion event.
Seijin No Hi in Art
Contemporary artists often explore the themes and symbolism of Seijin No Hi in their work, offering unique perspectives on tradition, identity, and societal change. Some artists reimagine traditional garments and rituals, challenging gender norms and cultural expectations. Others use Seijin No Hi as a lens to examine broader issues of globalization, consumerism, and the intersection of tradition and modernity. By engaging with Seijin No Hi in their art, these creators contribute to ongoing conversations about cultural heritage, individual expression, and the evolving dynamics of Japanese society.
Court ladies wearing the jūnihitoe, image from the Genji monogatari, via Wikipedia
The jūnihitoe, or 'twelve layers' in English, formally known as itsutsuginu-karaginu-mo, represents a style of formal court attire originating in the Heian period and worn by noble women and ladies-in-waiting at the Japanese Imperial Court. Comprising multiple kimono-like robes layered atop each other, the outer garments were cut larger and thinner to reveal the underlying layers, known as hitoe, with the innermost robe, called the kosode, serving as underwear against the skin. Accompanied by hakama as additional undergarments, over time, these layers transitioned into outerwear, with the kosode evolving into the modern-day kimono. Despite its name, the jūnihitoe's exact layer count varied, with accessories like obi belts and overcoats contributing to its formality. Heian-period court attire also emphasized color symbolism, reflected in the layered combinations known as kasane no irome, each associated with the seasons. While its popularity waned by the Kamakura period, the jūnihitoe remains significant, still worn by members of the Imperial House of Japan on significant occasions.
Gazbok, Lovely Japanese, 2022
In Lovely Japanese by Gazkob, the artist depicts the creation of traditional clothes, reminiscent of the jūnihitoe worn by noble women in the Heian period. The intricate layers of the garment, symbolizing the layers of history and culture embedded within Japanese tradition, are lovingly recreated through marker on paper.
Brandon Borgelt, Samurai 'Ronin' Bronze Sculpture, 2021
On the other hand, Brandon Borgelt's Samurai 'Ronin' Bronze Sculpture offers a reinterpretation of the samurai, a symbol deeply intertwined with Japanese heritage. While the sculpture embodies the stoic demeanor and formidable presence of a samurai, it also introduces elements of introspection and transformation. The disintegrating form of the samurai suggests a departure from tradition, echoing the theme of re-evaluation and self-concept often associated with coming of age rituals like Seijin No Hi.
Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi) in Japan stands as a testament to the nation's rich cultural heritage and its ability to adapt to changing times. Originating from ancient rites like Genpuku during the Nara and Heian periods, the modern celebration reflects Japan's evolving social structures and values. Despite facing challenges such as declining birth rates and shifting perceptions of adulthood, Seijin no Hi continues to be a cherished occasion, uniting generations in celebrating the journey from youth to maturity. Through themes of tradition, identity, and societal change, both historical rituals like Genpuku and contemporary observances of Seijin no Hi highlight the enduring significance of cultural rites of passage in shaping Japanese society. Additionally, contemporary artworks like Gazkob's Lovely Japanese and Brandon Borgelt's Samurai 'Ronin' Bronze Sculpture offer perspectives on tradition, identity, and societal change, further enriching the dialogue surrounding Seijin no Hi and its cultural relevance in modern Japan.
Selena Mattei