The 2018 International Coming of Age Ceremony (Students from All Cultures & Backgrounds are Encouraged to Attend)NEW

Hosted by the Japanese Friendship Garden, Azunakai, and the San Diego Yokohama Sister City Society.  The Coming of Age Ceremony (Japanese: "Seijin-shiki") is an important rite of passage for many young Japanese adults in Japan, just turning twenty. Many of them attend a ceremony at their local community center, dressed in traditional kimono or western suits to celebrate the new chapter in their lives. Unmarried women have the chance to wear the elaborate long-sleeved kimono called furisode. Families and friends will take many photos together on this occasion.

Students from all cultures and backgrounds are highly encouraged to attend this event. Kimono rental service is available, and participants are welcome to wear any other formal or cultural attire.

Date
Sunday, January 7, 2018

Time
3:30pm - 5:00pm

Location
Japanese Friendship Garden, Inamori Pavilion

Clich Here to Register

Kimono and hair dressing is available (sold in separate packages). Please arrive at least one or two hours prior to event and schedule an appointment with kimono dresser Yuko Niwa at [email protected] or 858.752.2206.

Eligibility requirements: 18-22 years of age

Participant Entry $15 - (includes full access to the garden, Inamori Pavilion, the ceremony, refreshments, and professsional photographs.If a participant guarantees at least 3 guests, his or her entry becomes free!  Please purchase 3 tickets for guests and send an email with the names of the guests plus the candidate for free participation.  

Guest Entry $25 (student guests with valid ID are $15) - includes same full access described above, except guests sit separately from the participants during ceremony

Kimono Rental $65 (sold separately)  - Kimono rentals are arranged separately through Yuko Niwa at a bargain price. For participants bringing their own kimono and wished to be dressed, there is a $25 fee. Please contact Yuko at [email protected] or 858.752.2206. Photos available upon request. Be sure to mention the Japanese Friendship Garden Coming of Age Ceremony to be eligible for this price. Read further conditions below.

The day of the ceremony students can enter the garden at the front entrance and change into their kimono at dressing rooms provided at the Inamori Pavilion in the lower garden. Separate parking and entry through the bottom garden can be arranged with prior notice and proof of registration.
 Kimono Package

1. Kimono Rental is limited to 12 people. Once all 12 kimonos are rented out, kimonos are available upon request but additional cost.

2. Hair dressing is also available upon request (additional cost).

Please direct any additional questions about the Coming of Age Ceremony to JFG Program Coordinator Frederic Hewett at [email protected] or 858.752.2206.