Japanese weddings are a fascinating blend of ancient Shinto traditions and modern Western influences. These ceremonies are known for their rich symbolism, intricate rituals, and stunning aesthetics. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most interesting and enduring Japanese wedding traditions that continue to captivate couples and guests alike.
The Engagement: Yuino
Before the wedding day, many Japanese couples observe yuinō (結納), a traditional engagement ceremony where families exchange symbolic gifts to formalize the union. Key elements include:
- Symbolic Offerings: The groom’s family presents items like dried seafood (noshi awabi for longevity), sake (shared joy), and a money envelope (kinpō-zutsumi) wrapped in gold-and-white paper.
- Family-Centric Ritual: Unlike Western proposals, yuinō emphasizes family harmony—both households meet to exchange gifts, often with a mediator (nakōdo).
- Modern Twists: Today, some couples opt for a simplified version or skip yuinō entirely, but the tradition endures in conservative families.
The Shinto Wedding Ceremony (神前式, Shinzen-shiki)
The most traditional form of Japanese weddings takes place at a Shinto shrine, where couples seek blessings from the kami (deities). Key elements include:
1. Attire: The Bride’s Shiromuku & the Groom’s Montsuki
The bride wears a shiromuku, a pure white kimono symbolizing purity and new beginnings. Her head is covered with a watabōshi (white hood) or an elaborate tsunokakushi (“horn-hider”), representing modesty and a vow to be a harmonious wife. The groom wears a formal black montsuki kimono adorned with his family crest, signifying respect for lineage and tradition.
2. Sacred Rituals of the Ceremony
- San-san-kudo (三三九度): The couple takes three sips each from three cups of sake, totaling nine sips—an auspicious number in Japanese culture. This ritual symbolizes the union of two families and the couple’s shared future.
- Tamagushi-hōten (玉串奉奠): They present a sacred sakaki branch to the shrine’s altar as an offering to the kami, praying for blessings on their marriage.
- Nuptial Vows (誓詞奏上, Seishi-sōjō): The couple reads vows before the shrine priest, pledging their commitment under divine witness.
The Wedding Reception (結婚披露宴, Kekkon Hiroen)
After the ceremony, a lavish banquet is held, where guests celebrate with food, speeches, and symbolic traditions:
1. Symbolic Banquet Customs
- Kagami-biraki (鏡開き): The couple breaks open a wooden sake barrel lid with mallets, symbolizing harmony and shared prosperity. Guests then drink the sake to celebrate unity.
- Sekihan (赤飯): Red rice, a celebratory dish, is served to bring good fortune.
- Kotobuki-sakazuki (寿盃): The couple shares a ceremonial sake cup with their parents, reinforcing family bonds.
- Outfit Changes: The bride often changes into a colorful iro-uchikake (embroidered kimono) or a Western-style wedding gown, showcasing both tradition and modernity.
2. Guest Etiquette & Gifts
- Shugi-bukuro (祝儀袋): Guests bring monetary gifts in special envelopes tied with red and white cords—colors of celebration in Japan.
- Avoiding Unlucky Numbers: Cash gifts are given in odd amounts (e.g., ¥30,000, ¥50,000), as even numbers (especially 4, which sounds like “death”) are considered inauspicious.
Post-Wedding Traditions
Even after the celebration, Japanese couples observe meaningful customs:
1. Hikidemono (引出物)
Guests receive elegant return gifts, often local delicacies or practical items like tableware, continuing the cycle of gratitude (okaeshi). Traditional choices include kashiwa-mochi (oak-leaf mochi for enduring bonds) or paired sake cups.
2. Shinto Blessings
Many couples revisit their wedding shrine for anniversaries, offering prayers or sake to reaffirm their vows. Some follow regional customs, like attaching locks at Miyajima or feeding Nara’s sacred deer together.
Final Thoughts
Japanese wedding traditions offer a unique and beautiful blend of ancient customs and modern practices. From the solemn Shinto ceremonies to the joyous receptions, these traditions continue to evolve while maintaining their cultural significance. Whether you’re planning a wedding or simply interested in global customs, Japanese weddings provide a fascinating glimpse into a rich and enduring cultural heritage.
