"Have You Heard of 'Teawase no Gi'? A Unique Ceremony to Try Instead of a Vow Kiss in Traditional Japanese Attire"

The "Hand Greeting Ceremony" is wonderful♡

It's one of the performances I'd like to try in a traditional Japanese wedding, even though it's not very mainstream.

Do you know about the "Hand Greeting Ceremony"?♡

The "Hand Greeting Ceremony" is a performance where the bride and groom face each other in front of the altar and gently place their left hands together.

When people pray, cheer someone on, or walk with someone they love, they naturally bring their hands together or hold hands.

Holding or clasping hands makes one feel as if they can hear the other's heartbeat, bringing a sense of安心, or excitement.

As the term "hand treatment" suggests, "hands" are one of the essential body parts for calming and conveying feelings.

Therefore, this Hand Greeting Ceremony is a lovely performance where "the couple gently places their palms together, feeling each other's warmth and reflecting on the significance of one another's presence..."

As a substitute for the vow kiss!

This Hand Greeting Ceremony is often used as a substitute for the vow kiss in traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies.

“Since it’s not a dress and I might be a bit hesitant about a vow kiss in traditional attire...”

“I wanted a calm atmosphere for the wedding because we’re adults, but kissing in front of people feels uncomfortable. However, the Hand Greeting Ceremony feels ceremonial and unique, which is nice.”

“I don’t want to do a vow kiss at all, and being kissed on the forehead or hand feels a bit much...”

The Hand Greeting Ceremony is chosen by couples with such sentiments.

Indeed, it’s a perfect performance for couples who want a quiet and calm ceremony while wearing traditional attire.♡

When is it done?

The Hand Greeting Ceremony is often performed after the exchange of rings.♡

After placing the wedding rings on each other's fingers, they silently vow, "I will not let go of this person's hand and will love them."♡

Too short or too long is not good, so about 5 seconds seems to be just right.

If you're having a traditional Japanese wedding, definitely give it a try!♡

While it's not a highly energetic or flamboyant performance, the Hand Greeting Ceremony warms the hearts of the guests watching.

It creates a quiet, calm, and gentle moment.♡

I recommend it as a substitute for the vow kiss for brides holding a traditional Japanese ceremony.