Coming-of-Age Ceremonies Held in Quake-Hit Noto Peninsula
On January 11th, ceremonies were held in three municipalities on the Noto Peninsula to celebrate the coming of age for those turning 20 years old. These events, known as "hatachi no iwai" in Japanese, were not held in 2023 due to the devastating magnitude-7.6 earthquake that struck the region on New Year's Day.
Despite the lowered legal age of adulthood to 18 in 2022, many local governments continue to host these ceremonies for 20-year-olds. This year's ceremonies honored 397 individuals who will turn 20 in fiscal year 2024, which ends on March 31st.
In Suzu, 79 out of 100 eligible participants attended the ceremony at the La Porte Suzu multipurpose hall. Mihaya Sugitaki, a third-year nursing student at Kanazawa University, represented the group and pledged to support others and contribute to the community's betterment. She expressed gratitude for the safety of her family and the availability of essential services after the earthquake.
In Wajima, 125 out of 232 eligible participants attended the ceremony held at the Wajima Junior High School gymnasium. Mihaya Furutani, 21, who left her hometown after the earthquake due to damage to her home and her parents' restaurant, shared her experience. She spoke of the sadness of being away from home but emphasized the strong sense of community that helped residents support each other during the challenging times.
Ceremonies for those turning 20 in fiscal year 2025 were held on January 12th. These events served as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of the Noto Peninsula communities as they continue to rebuild and recover from the earthquake.
6 Comments
KittyKat
This whole event feels like a waste of time and money. The resources could be better used to help the community recover from the earthquake.
Noir Black
It's important to acknowledge and celebrate the coming of age of these young people, especially after the challenges they've faced.
Loubianka
The ceremonies were poorly organized and lacked a sense of meaning. It felt like everyone was just going through the motions.
Noir Black
The choice of speakers is questionable. They should have chosen someone who could better represent the diversity of experiences of the young people.
Comandante
This event is a positive step in the healing process for the Noto Peninsula.
KittyKat
Why are these ceremonies being held in schools? Schools are for education, not celebrations. Find a more appropriate venue.