All about Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day)

In Shintoism, Seijin No Hi is a special day when young people in Japan celebrate becoming adults. It is a day to recognize and honor their growth and maturity. On this day, boys and girls who have turned 20 years old dress up in colorful kimonos and attend ceremonies at shrines. They receive blessings and well wishes from their families, friends, and community.

Seijin No Hi is a joyful occasion filled with traditional rituals and festivities. It is a time for young adults to reflect on their past and look forward to the future. They are encouraged to take on more responsibilities and make important decisions as they transition into adulthood.

The celebration of Seijin No Hi is a way to show respect for the young people in the community and to inspire them to embrace their new roles with confidence and pride. It is a reminder that growing up is a special and meaningful journey that should be celebrated and cherished.

Overall, Seijin No Hi is a beautiful tradition in Shintoism that honors the coming of age of young adults and encourages them to embrace their new responsibilities with joy and gratitude.

  1. Who celebrates Seijin No Hi?
  2. What do boys and girls wear on Seijin No Hi?
  3. What is the significance of Seijin No Hi?
  4. How does Seijin No Hi encourage young adults?
  5. Why is it important to celebrate milestones like coming of age?

Symbols and Traditions

Seijin No Hi, or Coming of Age Day, is a special celebration in Japan that honors young people turning 20 years old. This day is important because in Japanese culture, turning 20 marks the transition from being a teenager to becoming an adult.

During Seijin No Hi, young adults dress in traditional clothing called kimono or hakama, and attend ceremonies at shrines or local government offices. They receive blessings and words of encouragement from elders and officials.

In Shintoism, the traditional religion followed by many Japanese people, certain symbols and traditions are important during Seijin No Hi. For example, the kimono worn on this day symbolizes elegance and maturity, while the hakama represents respect and tradition.

Participants may also visit Shinto shrines to pray for a successful future and receive blessings from the gods. This practice is meant to bring good luck and guidance for their journey into adulthood.

Overall, Seijin No Hi is a special day filled with meaning and tradition, where young adults are celebrated as they take their first steps into the world of grown-ups.

  1. What is the significance of turning 20 years old in Japanese culture?
  2. What traditional clothing do young adults wear during Seijin No Hi?
  3. Why is visiting Shinto shrines important on Coming of Age Day?
  4. How do symbols like the kimono and hakama contribute to the celebration?
  5. Discuss the importance of blessings and encouragement from elders during Seijin No Hi.

My Family and Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day)

Hi, my name is Emily and I am 8 years old. Today, I want to share with you about a special celebration called Seijin No Hi that my family celebrates. Seijin No Hi, also known as Coming of Age Day, is a tradition in Japan that honors young people turning 20 years old. It is a significant day because it marks the transition from being a teenager to becoming an adult.

  1. What is Seijin No Hi?
  2. Why is turning 20 important in Japanese culture?
  3. What do young adults wear during Seijin No Hi?
  4. Why do participants visit Shinto shrines during Seijin No Hi?
  5. What is the significance of Seijin No Hi for young adults?

Comparing Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day) to another Festival

After learning all about Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day), is there another festival that you celebrate or that you know that is similar in any way? Make a project comparing the similarities and differences between this festival and Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day)and think about what symbols and traditions that are part of it. Think about the story of the festival, if it has one, where it is mainly celebrated - whether it is one country or all over the world. You can produce the project using any medium whether it's paper or on a laptop.

Slideshow - Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day)
A full set of teaching plans for Seijin No Hi (Coming of Age Day)teaching.