As stated in the purpose of the Act, the Seijin-shiki ceremony was originally held in order for the administration to cast blessings upon and encourage young people who reached a certain age, and for participants to make up their mind to contribute to creation of a better society as a responsible and independent member of society, and widely spread such influence in society, in response to the blessings and encouragement they receive.
もともと成人式は、法律の趣旨にもあるように、一定の年齢に達した青年を行政などが祝福・激励し、これに対して参加者が、責任ある自立した社会人としてより良い社会の創造に貢献していくことを決意し、それを広く社会に啓蒙するためのものだった。