Japan lowered the age of adulthood to 18 years, and it changed for the first time after 146 years.

　　Japanese rite of passage

　　Overseas network April 1 STAccording to Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun, the amendment to Japan’s Civil Law came into effect on April 1, and the adult age in Japan was officially lowered from 20 to 18. According to the amendment, at the age of 18, you can independently sign financial contracts such as credit card processing, investment and consumption, but you still need to be at least 20 years old to smoke, drink or participate in public gambling.

　　In 1876, Japan in Meiji era defined 20 years old as the age of adulthood for the first time. Japanese media pointed out that this is the first time that Japan has adjusted the age of majority in the Civil Law after 146 years. Since most countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) adopt the form of "18-year-old adults", Japan has also decided to adjust to international standards. Specifically, Japanese adults over the age of 18 can sign contracts such as mobile phones and credit cards without their parents’ consent, and can also apply for passports valid for 10 years. The marriage age of women is adjusted from 16 to 18, just like that of men.

　　Earlier, some media pointed out that the aging of Japanese society is becoming more and more serious, and lowering the age standard for adults is intended to encourage young people to enter society early and participate in social life. However, some experts worry that many 18-and 19-year-olds lack social experience and are easily deceived without the protection of guardians. The current Japanese law stipulates that minors or their guardians have the right to cancel contracts signed without the consent of their guardians. After the new regulations come into effect, people aged 18 and 19 will lose relevant legal protection. (Overseas Network-Wang Shanning)