january
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In Japan people used to be regarded as an adult when they turn 20 years old, but nowadays 18 years old. When children turn 10 years old, they are celebrated at school on a halfway of coming age ceremony by the school teachers and their parents. They also show their gratitude to them.
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On the Coming-of-Age Day, which falls on the second week of January every year, we celebrate our children who become adults. They wear Furisode Kimonos of formal suits and take pictures. A ceremony is held in the local area. In Japan reaching 18 years old is regarded as an adult. However, one can only start to drink or smoke from 20 years old onwards.
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The dondo yaki is held on 15th January. The decorations are gathered for a bonfire to send back to the gods.
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On the Kagami biraki day, 11th of January, we eat decorated rice cake for New Year’s Day. By so doing, we pray for the family health.
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On the 1st of January, New Year’s Day, the Shinto gods are welcomed at home. Kadomatsu pine trees,Shimenawa, kagami mochi are used as decoration at home. Osechi dishes and/or ozoni are served. Children are given otoshidama. There is a custom where people go to a shinto shrine or a temple New Year’s Day to pray to the Shinto gods. It is also a time for family to get together.