In Japan, certain birthdays serve as major milestones with distinct traditions. Ages such as 60 and 77 are celebrated for their cultural significance, often marking personal and historical cycles in life.
In Japan, particular birthdays are not mere anniversaries but milestones known as fushime, each carrying specific celebrations. For instance, a family recently marked the father's 88th birthday, called beiju, with the phrase "This year, my father turned 88."
The kanreki at age 60 signifies the completion of a full 60-year cycle in the traditional calendar, based on the zodiac rotation. This age often aligns with the onset of old age, or rōgo, representing a new life phase. Traditions include wearing red caps or attire to symbolize renewal.
The kiju at 77 derives its name from the kanji for joy, yorokobu. In cursive script, sōshotai, it stylizes as 㐂, evoking the form of nana-jū-nana, or 77. Ages 80, 88, and 99 also hold similar milestone status, emphasizing longevity and happiness in Japanese culture.
These customs strengthen family bonds and allow expression of personal significance using grammar like "ni totte." They offer insights for language learners at JLPT N3 level, blending vocabulary, history, and tradition.