"5 Compelling Reasons to Consider a Shinto Wedding if You're Japanese!"

One way to hold a wedding ceremony: What are the charms of a Shinto ceremony?

There are three methods for holding a wedding ceremony: "church ceremony," "civil ceremony," and "Shinto ceremony." The church ceremony (Christian ceremony) involves pledging vows to God in a church chapel, while the civil ceremony allows the couple to pledge their vows in front of their guests without being bound by traditional formats.

The "Shinto ceremony" takes place in a shrine's hall and is a way to report the marriage to the gods. While many people choose the "church ceremony" held at wedding venues or hotels, the uniquely Japanese "Shinto ceremony" is also incredibly wonderful! Here, we introduce the charms of a beautiful Shinto ceremony.

Charm of the Shinto ceremony #1: It's moving ♡

The main charm of a Shinto ceremony is its "moving" aspect. Even for Japanese people, the opportunity to attend a Shinto ceremony is quite rare. Many couples and guests are deeply moved by the solemnity of a Shinto ceremony held in the shrine's hall.

The ceremony, conducted in a solemn atmosphere, is moving in itself. It will surely leave a lasting impression not only on the couple but also in the hearts of their guests ♡

Charm of the Shinto ceremony #2: A uniquely Japanese ceremony

One of the appeals of a Shinto ceremony is that it allows for a uniquely Japanese celebration. Wearing a "shiromuku" (white kimono), "uchikake" (over kimono), or "hiki-furisode" (long-sleeved kimono) at a shrine for a wedding is something that can only be done in Japan!

In a Shinto ceremony, there are special proceedings such as "kagura ho-no" where shrine maidens perform dances in tune with sacred music, "seishi sojou" where the couple recites their vows, and the "shared sake ceremony" where family members partake in sacred sake. These unique traditions can only be experienced in Japan ♡

Being able to hold a Shinto ceremony is a privilege of being born in Japan. This is a chance to have a truly Japanese wedding! Shinto ceremonies are also recommended for international couples. His family will definitely fall in love with Japan... ♡

Charm of the Shinto ceremony #3: Shrine visitors celebrate with you

In a Shinto ceremony, the shrine maidens lead the couple and their guests in a procession towards the shrine hall. This is called "san-shin no gi" or "the bride's procession."

During this bridal procession, as you walk through the shrine grounds, there may be visitors who happened to come for worship who congratulate you. It feels absolutely wonderful to be celebrated by strangers ♡ Those who came to the shrine will feel happy receiving a share of the couple's joy too!

Charm of the Shinto ceremony #4: You can visit for various events

Because a Shinto ceremony takes place at a shrine, the couple can return for important occasions like "Hatsumode" (first shrine visit of the year), "Omiya-mairi" (shrine visit for a newborn), and "Shichi-Go-San" (celebration for children aged 3, 5, and 7). This is a delightful point!

Each visit to the shrine will remind you of your wedding day, allowing you to accumulate wonderful memories together. It would be truly happy if one day your child says, "I want to have my wedding at the same shrine as my mother..." ♡

Charm of the Shinto ceremony #5: The venue lasts

Since the Shinto ceremony takes place at a shrine, you don't have to worry about it closing down permanently. Wedding venues, if business doesn’t go well, can sadly shut down, which is heartbreaking to think about, especially about a place of significant memories.

However, shrines are unlikely to close except under extraordinary circumstances, so there’s no need to worry about that. It will surely be a lifelong place of memory!

The many charms of the Shinto ceremony ♡

There are numerous benefits to a Shinto ceremony both when you hold it and thereafter. A uniquely Japanese and beautiful wedding can be realized through a Shinto ceremony... ♡ Please consider adding the Shinto ceremony as one of your options when planning your wedding! ♩