I have an idea for a story, but I need to find a point in Kagome's not-too-distant future that would prompt some self-reflection. From what I've read, the two "coming of age" ceremonies won't quite fit (since Kagome is older than the 14 and I don't want to wait for her to be 20). Is there a festival or time of year that tends to prompt for self-reflection? Or even just times where you may realize how quickly time has been passing if you've been exceptionally busy?

Thanks!

Nicole wrote:
Is there a festival or time of year that tends to prompt for self-reflection? Or even just times where you may realize how quickly time has been passing if you've been exceptionally busy?
From what I know, there is not a specific festival for hansei. However, O-Shogatsu, New Year’s Eve, and Hanami, cherry blossom viewing, would be the two that would come to mind. These are usually holidays that are spent with family and friends, so I believe it would give Kagome time to reminisce. I hope this helps you. Good luck!

Thanks for your response. Hanami is one that I'm planning on using for another story. New Year's seems too cliche, but I may need to do some more reading on how the Japanese approach it.

How about Tea Ceremony?

There are many types of tea ceremonies perform at different time of year. It can be time for reflection depends on which type of ceremonies you attend.
Kagome's age shouldn't be a problem. She can either performing the ceremony or attending one.

Perhaps Obon? It's supposed to be a time of honoring your ancestors, but some reflection might occur as well?

Here's a link for some guidance: Obon (Wikipedia)

Check out my cultural fic has a lot of info about coming of age etc

Just throwing a thought out there, but one thing guaranteed to make me stop and think about how much time has passed is realising how old my younger siblings have grown. So maybe it could be Souta's coming of age ceremony?