Seijinshiki (成人式)is a coming of age ceremony to celebrate the commencement of life as adults in Japan. Each year in January, young adults -- those who have reached the maturity age -- gather at public halls, community centers, and other venues across the country to celebrate crossing the threshold into adulthood. The age of majority had been 20 in recent Japan and was legally changed to 18 in 2022. Many local governments and public organizations host seijinshiki to honor this passage, and newly minted seijin, or adults, attend events dressed in formal attire and take part in programs that commonly include speeches by local officials and well-known community figures, a reception, and the presentation of mementos commemorating the occasion.
The roots of the modern seijinshiki date back to the ancient genpukushiki of the Nara period (710–794), a rite marking a child’s transition, often around age 15, to adulthood. Depending on gender, social status, and other factors, participants would assume adult clothing and hairstyles, and in some instances a new name. Coming of age ceremonies, which in early times were observed largely by the elite class, have over the centuries grown to become an important social custom across society, changing and taking on different aspects in each successive era.
Who should participate? Due to a recent change of maturity age in Japan, we invite those who turn 18, 19, or 20 years of age in 2022 or 2023 to participate in this year’s Nadeshikokai Seijinshiki Coming of Age Ceremony. We embrace diversity and all ethnicities are welcome. (Please contact us if you are outside of the age range but want to participate.)
Nadeshikokai’s Seijinshiki Coming of Age Ceremony 2023 in Los Angeles
For the last 11 years Nadeshikokai has provided a unique opportunity and memorable moments to celebrate the commencement of adult life to young people in the Los Angeles area. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focusing on the cultural exchange through kimono, Nadeshikokai’s Seijinshiki Coming of Age Ceremony is far from just a photo session -- it is a once in a lifetime experience to appreciate Japanese culture and exquisite kimonos in an environment that is both traditional and modern. James Irvine Japanese Garden at Japanese American Community Center (JACCC) is a historical spot in Downtown Los Angeles, and you will have exclusive access to the beautiful private Japanese garden. It is a day of celebration for the young people and their loved ones.
2023 Nadeshikokai Seijinshiki Kimono Packages:
Nadeshikokai offers kimono packages that include complete kimono (furisode and hakama) rental and dressing services, seijinshiki certificate and ceremony, exclusive access and photo session at a beautiful Japanese garden in historical downtown Los Angeles, and live music.
Due to limited capacity at the venue, ceremonies and photo sessions will be held in small groups throughout the day.
Furisode Rental and Dressing Special $500
Includes: - Kimono (Furisode) rental - Dressing service - Hair & makeup - Registration fee - Seijinshiki certificate and gifts - Special ceremony - Exclusive access to Japanese garden for photoshoot (professional photo session sold separately)
Hakama Rental and Dressing Special $400
Includes: - Kimono (Hakama) rental - Dressing service - Registration fee - Seijinshiki certificate and gifts - Special ceremony - Exclusive access to Japanese garden for photoshoot (professional photo session sold separately)
Seats are limited. Order your Seijinshiki kimono package today from HERE. **Orders placed by 12/1/2022 will receive a 5% discount on kimono package**
Professional Photoshoot by Rebecca Li Photography (optional)
Capture beautiful moments with a professional photo session provided by award-winning photographer Rebecca Li Photography.
Note: Payments for photography sessions are processed through Nadeshikokai. Order your professional photo session with your kimono package HERE. (Photo sessions are not eligible for 5% discount.) .