The Allure of Japan's Traditional 'Bridal Procession': Why I Absolutely Want to Have a Shinto Wedding Like Erika's!
2016.04.05 published
Do you know about the traditional wedding ceremony, the "Bride Procession"?
The "Bride Procession" is a ceremony that takes place when holding a wedding ceremony at a shrine, where the officiant, bride, groom, mediator, parents, and relatives form a procession to advance to the deities. ♡ It can be seen as a substitute for walking down the aisle in a typical wedding ceremony. Many people may have witnessed this procession when visiting a shrine. ♡
Erika also did it, didn't she? ♡
Speaking of the "Bride Procession," one is reminded of the wedding ceremony of Erika Sawajiri and Tsuyoshi Takajo! Erika's wedding was held in 2009, which was already 7 years ago, but it is still a source of admiration. Erika's white formal kimono and hairstyle are points to take inspiration from. ♡
Also known as the "Shinshin no Gi," this Bride Procession is a special ceremony filled with solemnity and splendor that becomes a memorable moment of a lifetime. ♡ It's auspicious, and if you're having a Shinto wedding, the Bride Procession is a must-have ceremony! ♩
What does the "Bride Procession" mean?
The Bride Procession is a ceremony performed to calm the heart and progress into the "sacred domain" of the shrine. * It also signifies unifying the emotions and footsteps of the participants as everyone walks solemnly together, guided by the officiant and shrine maidens.
I want to do it! Introducing the charm of the Bride Procession!
The "Bride Procession," a traditional Japanese ceremony, is visually stunning. For brides having a Shinto wedding, participating in this will surely create the best memories! ♡ This time, let’s introduce the charm of the coveted "Bride Procession"! ♩
Charm of the "Bride Procession" ① ~ Everyone can participate ♩ ~
In a typical wedding ceremony, the entrance of the groom and bride usually involves the couple entering while the guests watch. ♩ The "Bride Procession" is participatory, where the mediator, parents, relatives, friends, and everyone who helped you walk together. * It allows all the participants to share in the joyful and celebratory feelings. ♡ Whether with a large group or a small one, it’s okay! Erika's wedding had only 9 relatives participating, making it a small-scale procession. *
Charm of the "Bride Procession" ② ~ Experience wonderful thrills ♩ ~
The "Bride Procession," led by officiants and shrine maidens walking towards the main shrine, is filled with a very solemn atmosphere. * Since the distance and time to walk is longer than in chapel ceremonies, one can enjoy a moderate amount of tension and excitement. ♡ The unusual experience of progressing through a luxurious shrine is delightful! ♡
Charm of the "Bride Procession" ③ ~ Widely showcase your bridal appearance ♡ ~
The "Bride Procession" takes place outside, so brides can widely showcase their bridal appearance not only to family but also to the general public visiting the shrine. ♡ It would be a waste to keep the bride's beautiful white kimono attire confined to family alone. ♩ As the "Bride Procession" is rare, it is said that strangers present may also offer their congratulations! ♡
Charm of the "Bride Procession" ④ ~ Full of wonderful auspicious meanings ♡ ~
Just like the virgin road, it is said the "Bride Procession" represents the couple's life together. ♩ The main shrine is a place to pray for the couple’s future, the couple now becoming one represents "the present," and the relatives who have supported them until now symbolize "the past." The unity of these three elements encapsulates the blessing of a happy life for the bride and groom. ♡
The large and magnificent red umbrella held by the couple also has meaning. The color red symbolizes protection from evil and purity. By using a red umbrella, it signifies guarding the couple under it from misfortunes. ♡ It’s wonderful that it looks vibrant and also has protective power! ♩ This is similar to when a flower girl scatters flower petals. *
Charm of the "Bride Procession" ⑤ ~ Captivating photos can be taken ♡ ~
The "Bride Procession" allows for a longer duration than the typical entrance of wedding ceremonies, resulting in many more photo opportunities. * Additionally, because it takes place within the shrine, there are many beautiful photos with a charming background! ♡
Capturing the entire procession in a wide shot is a unique aspect of the "Bride Procession." ♩ The vibrant crimson spider lily reflects the celebratory atmosphere of the wedding beautifully. ♡
You can have the "Bride Procession" even at famous shrines like Meiji Shrine! ♡
Amazingly, the "Bride Procession" can be held at famous shrines like the Meiji Shrine! ♡ A traditional Shinto wedding at the prestigious Meiji Shrine is something to admire, isn’t it? ♩ There are many shrines within Tokyo, like the Nogi Shrine, where you can have a "Bride Procession"! ♡
Check here for the "Bride Procession" at Meiji Shrine! ➡