1. Introduction
In Japan, the age of 20 is an important milestone in life. It marks the end of adolescence and the start of adulthood. This transition is celebrated with a special ceremony known as Seijin no Hi, and it marks the beginning of a new phase in life for those who turn 20 in Japan. In this article, we will explore what turning 20 means in Japanese culture, from the historical context to the ceremonies and celebrations that take place on this day.
2. Historical Context of 20 Years Old in Japan
The concept of coming of age at 20 is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. During the Edo period (1603-1868), it was customary for people to reach adulthood at the age of 15 or 16. However, during Meiji period (1868-1912), this was changed to 20 years old as a way to encourage young people to focus on their education and prepare them for their future lives as adults. This has since become a long-standing tradition in Japan and is still celebrated today with Seijin no Hi.
3. Coming of Age in Japan
In Japan, reaching the age of 20 is seen as an important milestone in life and marks the transition from adolescence into adulthood. At this age, young people are expected to take on more responsibility both at home and within society, such as taking care of their families or participating in community activities. It is also seen as a time when young people should start thinking about their future career path and begin making plans for their future lives as adults.
4 The Ceremony Of Seijin No Hi
Seijin no Hi (which translates to “coming-of-age day”) is a national holiday that takes place every year on January 15th or second Monday of January each year to celebrate those who have reached the age of 20 during that calendar year. On this day, young adults dress up in traditional kimonos or suits and gather at town halls around Japan where they are congratulated by local government officials before attending ceremonies with family members or friends where they receive gifts such as money or jewelry from older relatives or friends.
5 The Significance Of Turning 20
Turning 20 years old is seen as an important milestone not only because it marks the end of adolescence but also because it signifies that one has completed their compulsory education which consists mostly of junior high school (ages 13-15) and high school (ages 16-18). It also symbolizes one’s ability to make independent decisions about their future life choices such as marriage or starting a career path after graduation from high school or university.
6 Gifts And Celebrations For 20 Year Olds In Japan
Gifts are often given by older relatives or friends on Seijin no Hi to congratulate those who have reached this milestone age. These gifts can range from money envelopes (called goshugi) which contain monetary gifts ranging from several hundred yen up to several thousand yen depending on how close they are with each other; jewelry such as watches; clothing items like kimonos; household items such as furniture; books; electronics; etc., all meant to help them start off their adult lives with something special they can use for many years ahead! Celebrations usually consist of family gatherings where everyone gets together over food and drinks while reminiscing about past memories before congratulating those who have become adults that year!
7 Other Milestones At 20 Years Old In Japan
Turning twenty years old also marks other milestones within Japanese culture such as being able to legally purchase alcohol, tobacco products, firearms, lottery tickets and vote if one wishes too! It also allows young people access into certain establishments like bars and nightclubs which may not be accessible if one was under twenty years old due to legal restrictions regarding alcohol consumption! Additionally, some universities may require students over twenty years old when applying for admission due to certain curriculum requirements associated with certain fields!
8 Conclusion
In conclusion, turning twenty years old is an important milestone within Japanese culture which marks the end of one’s adolescence and beginning into adulthood! It is celebrated through Seijin no Hi where those who have reached this milestone are congratulated through various ceremonies while receiving gifts from older relatives or friends! There are other milestones associated with turning twenty such as being able legally purchase alcohol products, tobacco products etc., access into certain establishments like bars/nightclubs etc., while some universities may require students over twenty when applying for admission due certain curriculum requirements associated with certain fields!
9 References
Is 20 a minor in Japan?The Japanese Criminal Code does not provide punishment for acts committed by persons under the age of 14. However under Japans Juvenile Law a minor (少年) refers to someone under one year of age.
What’s the age gap limit in Japan?
When he was five years old he asked for a gap. The Legal Council of the Ministry of Justice met on October 24 and presented a preliminary plan to amend the Criminal Code of Sexual Offenses. Drinking is prohibited from age 13 to 16 with some conditions being lifted by law. 11 Nov 2022
What is a normal age gap in Japan?
14 years in Japan (pdf). An example that can be seen all over the world: the age gap between heterosexual couples is visible in every culture. Several evolutionary explanations have been proposed (older males may have more resources than younger males may be more fertile) but none can be easily tested.