The Traditional Japanese Wedding
Some Japanese people still have a traditional wedding, while many opt for a Western-style ceremony. Some will even combine elements of both. Unlike a Western wedding, a traditional Japanese ceremony is more intimate, with only immediate family members in attendance. It takes place at a Shinto shrine with traditional music. In modern times, the shrine can be set up at a hotel where the reception will take place. The couple wears traditional wedding kimonos and participates in a “san-san-ku-do” ceremony.
Miko maidens, dressed in red or white, serve the bride and groom during this ritual. The ceremony involves the drinking of sake three times by the bride and groom. This ritual is part of the religious ceremony binding them in matrimony. The Miko pours a small amount of sake into three nuptial cups. The bride and groom drink a small amount from each cup three times, followed by their family members. Drinking sake signifies the marriage union and the unification of their families. After san-san-ku-do, the couple offers twigs from the sacred sakaki tree to worship the gods. This marks a solemn and formal end to the marriage ceremony.
Wedding Reception
Most weddings, including traditional ones, include a reception after the formal ceremony. It usually takes place at a hotel or banquet hall, much like a modern Western wedding. The reception begins with go-betweens. These people know the families of the bride and groom and introduce them. Unlike Western-style receptions, which focus on the couple, Japanese receptions emphasize the families. The bride typically wears a colorful kimono or Western-style clothing, depending on her preference. Similar to Western receptions, guests give speeches, enjoy entertainment, present gifts, and are served a meal. At the end of the reception, the bride and groom thank their guests for attending.
Cost
The cost of a traditional Japanese wedding is similar to that of a Western-style wedding. Renting a wedding dress can range from 100,000 yen to 300,000 yen. Banquet hall rentals average around 2,400,000 yen. Additional expenses include photographer fees (150,000 yen), video charges (10,000 yen to 100,000 yen), and catering (100,000 yen to 1,000,000 yen). Due to these high costs, many modern couples choose simpler weddings. This helps them save money and create a more intimate setting.
Honeymoon
Japanese couples do go on honeymoons, just like in the West. The most popular destination is Hawaii. Other popular destinations include Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the West Coast of the U.S., and Southeast Asia. For those who cannot afford such extravagant trips, domestic destinations like Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Okinawa are popular choices. The honeymoon can last between a week and three weeks, depending on the couple’s budget and available time. It can cost approximately 500,000 yen for two people.
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