Japan is where ancient traditions and modern elegance intertwine, creating some of the most breathtaking wedding experiences in the world. But if you’re planning to say “I do” in Japan, you have a big decision to make: Western-style wedding or traditional Japanese ceremony?
Both options are stunning, but they offer completely different experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a fairy-tale chapel wedding or a deeply symbolic Shinto ceremony, this guide will help you decide which style is perfect for you—or why you might want to blend both for an unforgettable fusion wedding!
Western-Style Wedding in Japan: A Romantic European Dream
Ever imagined walking down the aisle in a flowing white dress, with soft candlelight illuminating a stunning chapel? Japan’s Western-style weddings bring this dream to life, offering the elegance of a traditional Christian ceremony—without the need to be religious.
The Setting: Chapels with a Touch of Europe
Many Japanese hotels and wedding venues feature European-style chapels with stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and wooden pews. Some of the most sought-after locations include:
💒 St. Grace Cathedral (Tokyo & Osaka) – A breathtaking chapel inspired by European churches. Best Bridal Japan
💒 The Tokyo American Club – A luxurious venue with a Western-style ceremony space. Tokyo American Club
💒 The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – A perfect blend of modern luxury and Western elegance. Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
The Ceremony: Vows, Rings, and That Magical Kiss
Western-style weddings in Japan closely resemble those in the U.S. or Europe:
✅ The bride walks down the aisle to classical music.
✅ The couple exchanges heartfelt vows.
✅ Rings are placed on fingers.
✅ A kiss seals the deal (cue the happy tears!).
Most chapels have a professional “priest” (often an actor, since real Christian priests are rare in Japan) to conduct the ceremony. While this may sound unusual, the ceremony itself is deeply romantic and beautifully staged.
The Dress Code: Western Elegance
👰 Brides wear classic white wedding dresses—lace, tulle, long veils, and dramatic trains are all welcome!
🤵 Grooms typically wear a tuxedo or a formal suit, bringing in that James Bond sophistication.
Traditional Japanese Wedding: A Spiritual and Cultural Experience
If you want a wedding filled with centuries-old traditions, symbolic rituals, and an air of spiritual beauty, a Shinto-style wedding might be perfect for you.
The Setting: Sacred Shrines & Serenity
Traditional Japanese weddings take place in shrines—historical sites surrounded by lush gardens, wooden torii gates, and an air of tranquility. Here are some of Japan’s most iconic shrine wedding venues:
⛩ Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo) – A legendary site for traditional Shinto weddings. Meiji Jingu
⛩ Shimogamo Shrine (Kyoto) – A UNESCO heritage shrine with deep cultural significance. Shimogamo Shrine
⛩ Itsukushima Shrine (Hiroshima) – Famous for its floating torii gate. Miyajima Shrine
The Ceremony: Sake Instead of Rings
Instead of exchanging rings, couples participate in san-san-kudo—a ritual where they take three sips of sake from three different cups, symbolizing their union.
✅ The ceremony is led by a Shinto priest, with miko (shrine maidens) assisting.
✅ The couple makes offerings to the kami (Shinto deities) for blessings.
✅ There’s no public kiss, but a deep bow of respect seals the union.
The Dress Code: Timeless Japanese Elegance
👘 Brides wear a shiromuku—a breathtaking all-white kimono symbolizing purity. Some choose a colorful iro-uchikake for the reception.
🎩 Grooms wear a montsuki hakama—a black kimono adorned with their family crest, paired with formal pleated trousers.
🔹 Fun Fact: The bride’s headpiece, tsunokakushi, is said to “hide the horns of jealousy” and symbolize her transition into a devoted wife.
Reception Differences: Toasts, Speeches & Money Gifts
No matter the ceremony style, Japanese wedding receptions are elegant and formal. But there are some big differences between Western and traditional receptions.
🎉 Western Reception in Japan:
- 🎤 Emotional speeches from family & friends
- 🍰 Cutting the wedding cake (yes, it’s a big moment here too!)
- 💃 Dancing is rare but sometimes included
- 🍷 Champagne toasts (Kanpai! 🍾)
🎎 Traditional Japanese Reception:
- 🍶 A more structured event with formal speeches & performances
- 💌 Guests give goshugi (money gifts) in decorative envelopes instead of physical presents
- 📹 Video montages & a couple’s love story presentation
- 👏 Lots of polite applause (Japanese receptions are usually quieter than Western ones)
Which Style Should You Choose?
🔹 Western Wedding is for you if…
✔ You love the idea of a romantic European-style chapel wedding.
✔ You want to wear a classic white gown and tuxedo.
✔ You prefer personalized vows & exchanging rings.
🔹 Traditional Japanese Wedding is for you if…
✔ You want a deeply cultural & spiritual experience.
✔ You love the elegance of kimono & traditional ceremonies.
✔ You want a symbolic & family-oriented wedding.
🔹 Why Not Both?
Many couples combine both styles—starting with a Shinto ceremony at a shrine and then changing into Western attire for a chapel-style reception. This way, you get the best of both worlds!
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered!
❓ Can foreigners have a Western-style wedding in Japan?
✅ Absolutely! Most Western-style wedding venues welcome foreign couples.
❓ Are Shinto weddings legally recognized?
❌ No, Shinto ceremonies are symbolic. You’ll need a legal registration at a city hall for official marriage recognition.
❓ How much does a Japanese wedding cost?
💰 Prices range from ¥2,000,000-5,000,000 ($13,000-$35,000) depending on the venue, guest list, and style.
Final Thoughts: Capture Your Dream Wedding in Japan!
Whether you’re walking down the aisle in a sunlit chapel or sipping sake under a shrine’s torii gate, your wedding in Japan deserves to be beautifully remembered. As a destination wedding photographer, I capture the essence of every moment—from the first glance to the final bow.
📸 Explore my latest wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check out my wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s talk about your dream wedding in Japan! Contact Me
Because whether it’s a kiss in a chapel or a bow at a shrine, your love story deserves to be captured forever. 💕
