Half-coming-of-age

Today, and February 1st annually, is Half-coming-of-age day, 2分の1成人式の日. Reading the date as one (the first) over two (February) the date reflects the idea of being “half” way to the traditional age of adulthood at aged ten. 

This anniversary is a modern one, created by Studio Alice, a famous nationwide children's photography studio. But the idea of halfway to adulthood has existed for generations. Unfortunately, because the legal age of adulthood changed from 20 to 18 in 2022, it has changed things in recent years. For example, at this time of year my town always had a half-coming-of-age ceremony for all 10-year-olds in the town in a given year. It was an event the children really looked forward to. But because of the change in the legal age, they no longer do it, as ten is no longer halfway to adulthood. 

Two of my children were fortunate enough to turn ten before the legal age of adulthood changed and they got the great pleasure of having a half-coming-of-age event. My other two children missed out. Some municipalities have continued the tradition. How about your municipality? Do they still celebrate half-coming-of-age?