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Ah, the 成人式 Seijinshiki, a vibrant ceremony marking the monumental transition into adulthood for young Japanese men and women turning 20. It’s a day draped in tradition, stunning attire, and the promise of exciting possibilities just around the corner. This blog will walk you through the Seijinshiki ceremony on the Coming of Age Day, where to rent hakama or furisode, and more!
A Quick Jump To…
- A Look Back: Where It All Began
- When is Seijinshiki?
- During The Seijinshiki Ceremony
- A Dazzling Display of Tradition
- Where to Find Your Perfect Furisode
- Where to Find Your Perfect Hakama
- Phrases To Use When Renting A Furisode or Hakama
- Things To Remember
- FAQ
A Look Back: Where It All Began
While the modern Seijinshiki took root in the post-war era to encourage optimism and renewal, its origins are far back in Japanese history. Ancient coming-of-age rituals like the 元服 genpuku for boys and 裳着 mogi for girls laid the foundation for the contemporary celebration. Seijinshiki remains a cherished cultural touchstone, marking a significant milestone in a young person’s life.
When is Seijinshiki?
Mark your calendars! Seijinshiki takes place annually on Coming of Age Day, also known as 成人の日 Seijinnohi, which is the second Monday of January. This means in 2024, it will be held on January 8th. So, save the date if you plan to attend or participate!
During The Seijinshiki Ceremony
The ceremony typically involves speeches by local officials, congratulatory messages from family and friends, and sometimes even performances.
A Dazzling Display of Tradition
The heart of Seijinshiki lies in the captivating attire. Women adorn themselves in 振袖 furisode, long-sleeved kimono with flowing sleeves that symbolize grace and wisdom. These vibrant garments, often adorned with auspicious patterns like cranes or peonies, come in a dazzling array of colors, each reflecting the wearer’s personality. Conversely, men traditionally sport sharp 袴 hakama, pleated trousers paired with a formal jacket.
Where to Find Your Perfect Furisode
Renting a furisode is a popular choice for Seijinshiki, as these exquisite garments can be quite an investment. Thankfully, numerous rental shops across Japan cater specifically to this occasion. Here are some options to consider:
Rental Shops: These shops offer extensive furisode catering to various styles, preferences, and budgets. They often provide expert styling advice and complete coordination of accessories. Here are some renowned shops:
着物モード 表参道総本店 振袖館
- Opening Hours: 10:30～19:00
- Tel: 03-3403-2069
- Location: 東京都渋谷区神宮前3-13-11
- Reservation Link
京都きもの友禅 東京本館（日本橋）
- Opening Hours: 10:00～18:00
- Tel: 007-8601-29879
- Location: 東京都中央区日本橋本町4-8-15 NEO KAWAI BUILDING 2F
- Reservation Link
アイドルbyやまと 新宿店
- Opening Hours: 10:30〜19:00
- Tel: 03-3356-6074
- Location: 東京都渋谷区千駄ヶ谷5-27-3 やまとビル6階
- Reservation Link
Department Stores: Department stores like Takashimaya and Mitsukoshi often have dedicated kimono sections, where you can find furisode rentals alongside other formal attire. They usually offer high-quality options and professional assistance.
Online Retailers: For convenience and nationwide delivery, explore online retailers specializing in furisode rentals:
Tips for Choosing Your Furisode
- Color: Select a color that reflects your personality and complements your skin tone. Popular choices include pink, red, blue, and purple.
- Pattern: Consider auspicious motifs with symbolic significance, like cranes, peonies, or seasonal patterns.
- Accessories: Complete your look with a matching obi (belt), hair ornaments, and traditional footwear.
- Budget: Rental prices vary depending on the quality, design, and rental period. Set a budget beforehand to guide your choices.
- Reservations: Seijinshiki season is busy, so book your furisode early to ensure availability.
- Professional Styling: Many rental shops offer expert styling services to help you create a flawless look.
Where to Find Your Perfect Hakama
Rental Shops: Renting a hakama is a popular choice for Seijinshiki, especially considering its infrequent use. Many kimono rental shops offer hakama rentals alongside furisode. Look for established shops like:
FURISODE ARC 渋谷店
- Opening Hours: 9:00～19:00
- Tel: 072-242-3074
- Location: 東京都渋谷区神南1-18-2 フレーム神南坂2F
- Reservation Link
マイム東京本店
- Opening Hours: 10:00～18:00
- Tel: 03-5397-0123
- Location: 東京都杉並区荻窪5-18-7
- Call to Make A Reservation
レンタルブティック ARK
- Opening Hours: 11:00～19:00 | Wed Closed
- Tel: 03-3476-4141
- Location: 東京都渋谷区恵比寿西1-32-16 COMBOX 7F
- Call to Make A Reservation
Department Stores: Major department stores like Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya often have dedicated kimono sections with Seijinshiki rental options, including hakama.
Online Retailers: Explore online retailers specializing in furisode and hakama rentals for convenience and nationwide delivery.
Tips for Choosing a Hakama
- Material: Silk is the most traditional and luxurious option, but cotton or polyester blends offer affordability and practicality.
- Style: Formal silk hakama usually has seven pleats, while everyday varieties might have five. Choose based on the formality of the event.
- Size: Hakama fits loosely, so ensure it’s comfortably wide without dragging on the ground.
Phrases To Use When Renting A Furisode or Hakama
- すみません、振袖/袴のレンタルをお願いしたいのですが。Sumimasen, furisode/ hakama no rentaru o onegai shitai nodesuga. – Excuse me, I’d like to rent a furisode/hakama.
- どんな種類の振袖/袴がありますか。Don’na shurui no furisode/ hakama ga arimasu ka. – What kinds of furisode/hakama do you have?
- 試着室はありますか。Shichakushitsu wa arimasu ka. – Do you have a fitting room?
- この振袖/袴のレンタル料金はいくらですか。Kono furisode/ hakama no rentaru ryōkin wa ikuradesu ka. – How much does it cost to rent this furisode/hakama?
- もっと華やかな振袖/袴は、ないでしょうか。Motto hanayakana furisode/ hakama wa nai deshou ka. – I’m looking for a more vibrant furisode/hakama.
- もう少し落ち着いた色のものが、いいんですが。Mōsukoshi ochitsuita iro no mono ga ii n desu ga. – I’d like something in a more subdued color.
- 私の身長は○○センチ、足のサイズは○○センチです。Watashi no shinchō wa ￮￮ senchi, ashi no saizu wa ￮￮ senchidesu. – My height is ○○ cm, and the size of my feet is ○○ cm.
- 帯も一緒にレンタルできますか。Obi mo issho ni rentaru dekimasu ka. – Can I also rent an obi (belt) with the furisode/hakama?
- この振袖/袴を(date)にレンタルしたいのですが。Kono furisode/ hakama o (date) ni rentaru shitai nodesuga. – I’d like to rent this furisode/hakama on (date).
- 予約は必要ですか。Yoyaku wa hitsuyōdesu ka. – Do I need to make a reservation?
- 今から予約できますか。Ima kara yoyaku dekimasu ka. – Can I make a reservation now?
Things To Remember
- Respect the cultural significance of the Seijinshiki.
- Dress modestly if attending as a guest.
- Be mindful of photography etiquette.
Seijinshiki is more than just a ceremony; it’s a beautiful cultural tapestry woven with tradition, vibrant colors, and the shared excitement of stepping into adulthood. So, whether you’re participating or simply observing, allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of this unique Japanese celebration.
You Might Be Wondering…
Can I participate in Seijinshiki if I'm not Japanese?
Absolutely! While traditionally for Japanese citizens, some regions welcome international participants. Check with your local municipality for details.
What happens after the ceremony?
The festivities continue! Many young adults celebrate with friends and family, enjoying meals, parties, and outings.
How much does it cost to rent or buy furisode or hakama?
The price range depends on each shop and the package you choose. Typically, renting is way cheaper than purchasing an authentic furisode and hakama. Depending on the package, renting one can cost 25,000 yen to 800,000 yen.
Can I rent furisode or hakama even if it is not Seijinshiki season?
Yes, you definitely can! Check-in with the shops or websites you want to rent the clothes from and experience this amazing Japanese culture.
