Iwate : Gathering of 20-year-olds held
![](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/9886454.jpg)
Young people participate in a “gathering for 20-year-olds” in Sumita, Iwate Prefecture, on Aug. 13.
10:00 JST, September 11, 2022
SUMITA, Iwate — The town of Sumita in Iwate Prefecture has renamed its annual coming-of-age ceremony to reflect the recent change in the age of adulthood.
Sumita’s first “gathering for 20-year-olds” was held on Aug. 13, attended by 32 of the 46 residents who have or will turn 20 this fiscal year.
The age of adulthood was lowered this year from 20 to 18, which led to the change in the Sumita ceremony’s name. Based partly on survey results, however, the town decided to continue to hold an annual event for 20-year-olds, as 18-year-olds are busy with such activities as preparing to go to college or enter the workforce.
Sumita typically held its past coming-of-age ceremonies during the Bon Festival period, but the previous two years’ events were held at later times due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year represented the first time in three years that the ceremony was held in summer.
“I want to keep in mind that I’m one of the people who will carry the coming age,” said Misaki Hatakeyama from Sumita’s Setamai district. Hatakeyama, 20, is a second-year student at Hokkaido University of Education.
"Features" POPULAR ARTICLE
-
Spicy Couscous Dish for Hot Summers; Addictive Spice Mix from North Africa to Make Stew
-
‘Jewelry box’ Cafe Brings 1980s Sparkle to Tokyo; ‘Felt Like I was Transported Back to the Showa Era’
-
Nagoya Restaurant’s Local Grilled Eel Specialty Serves Up Perfect Summer Dish; Michelin Guide-Listed Eatery Still Considered ‘Newcomer’
-
Nighttime Summer Festival to Be Held at Tokyo Museum; 6 Nights of Traditional Fun Include Access to Museum
-
Traditional Owara Kaze no Bon Festival Begins in Toyama; Elegant Dance Attracts Visitors
JN ACCESS RANKING