So, you’re thinking about getting married in Japan? Maybe you’ve fallen in love with the idea of a traditional Shinto wedding, with its deep-rooted history, breathtaking shrines, and beautiful rituals. Or perhaps you just want an excuse to wear an incredible kimono and sip sake as part of your vows (totally understandable).
Either way, a Shinto wedding isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a journey into Japanese culture, spirituality, and artistry. And trust me, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable wedding experience, this is it.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Shinto weddings in Japan—from sacred rituals to the best shrines to say “I do.”
What Is a Shinto Wedding Ceremony?
A Shinto wedding (神前式, Shinzen-shiki) is a deeply symbolic and spiritual ceremony held at a Shinto shrine. Unlike Western weddings, which focus on personal vows and grand receptions, Shinto weddings emphasize purity, respect for the gods (kami), and family unity.
And here’s the cool part: this tradition has been around for over 100 years! Before the 20th century, most Japanese couples got married at home, but the 1900 wedding of Emperor Taisho at Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine set the trend for Shinto ceremonies.
Since then, it has remained a timeless, elegant, and sacred way to tie the knot—and yes, even if you’re not Japanese, you can have one! (More on that later.)
Where to Have a Shinto Wedding in Japan
Not all shrines in Japan offer weddings, and some only allow Japanese nationals. But don’t worry—here are three absolutely stunning shrines that welcome international couples:
🔹 Meiji Shrine (Tokyo) – One of the most prestigious and scenic shrines in Japan, surrounded by a lush forest in the heart of the city. Website
🔹 Shimogamo Shrine (Kyoto) – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vivid red torii gates and serene setting. Perfect if you want an ultra-traditional Kyoto wedding. Website
🔹 Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima, Hiroshima) – Ever dreamed of getting married at the shrine with Japan’s iconic floating torii gate? This is your spot. Website
Step-by-Step Guide to a Traditional Shinto Wedding
Here’s what happens during a Shinto wedding ceremony (yes, there’s sake involved, and yes, you’ll look amazing).
1. Purification Ritual
Before the ceremony begins, a Shinto priest purifies the couple to cleanse their spirits. Think of it as hitting the “refresh” button on your love life.
2. San-san-kudo (The Sake Ritual)
This is one of the most iconic parts of a Shinto wedding. The couple sips sake three times from three different cups (hence the name, which means “three-three-nine times”). It symbolizes bonding your souls together—and let’s be honest, it’s a great excuse for a pre-reception drink.
3. The Wedding Oath (Seishi-sōden)
The groom recites a formal oath to the gods, promising to protect and cherish his bride. The bride? She simply nods. (Because in Japan, less is more.)
4. Tamagushi Offering
The couple presents a sacred sakaki branch to the shrine’s deity as a gesture of respect. This symbolizes their gratitude and hope for divine blessings.
5. The Ring Exchange (Optional)
While traditional Shinto weddings don’t include ring exchanges, many modern couples choose to add this Western touch.
6. Family Blessing
Instead of a big reception with speeches, the ceremony ends with a quiet family toast and blessings for a harmonious marriage.
Shinto Wedding Attire: What Brides and Grooms Wear
👘 For the Bride:
- The Shiromuku (all-white kimono) symbolizes purity and a fresh start. It’s the Shinto equivalent of a white wedding dress, but way more intricate.
- The Iro-uchikake is a stunning red or gold kimono worn during the reception. More color = more happiness.
- The Tsunokakushi is a traditional white headdress meant to “hide the horns of jealousy.” (Yep, apparently even ancient Japan had relationship drama.)
🎩 For the Groom:
- He wears a Montsuki Haori Hakama, a formal black kimono with his family crest.
- Some grooms opt for white hakama, which gives a modern and elegant touch.
Can Foreigners Have a Shinto Wedding in Japan?
YES! Many shrines allow non-Japanese couples to have a Shinto wedding, but you’ll need some planning. Here’s what you should know:
✔️ Choose a Shrine That Allows Foreign Weddings – Some shrines require a Japanese connection, but the ones I listed above are open to international couples.
✔️ Book Early – Popular shrines fill up months (or even years) in advance.
✔️ Hire a Wedding Planner – A local planner can help with translation, attire rental, and logistics.
✔️ Get a Photographer Who Knows Japan – A Shinto wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make sure your photographer captures every stunning detail!
How Much Does a Shinto Wedding Cost?
A Shinto wedding can range from $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on the shrine, attire, and reception. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Shrine Fee: $500–$3,000
- Kimono Rental: $1,000–$5,000 (or more for custom outfits)
- Photographer: $1,500–$5,000
- Reception Dinner: $100+ per person
(Pro tip: If you’re on a budget, consider a small shrine or an off-season wedding.)
Planning Tips: How to Book a Shinto Wedding in Japan
✔ Choose the Right Season – Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (red maple leaves) are the most magical.
✔ Learn a Few Japanese Phrases – Even a simple “Arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) goes a long way.
✔ Consider a Shrine with a Scenic Backdrop – Shrines like Itsukushima or Meiji offer unreal photo opportunities.
✔ Book a Professional Photographer – Trust me, your phone camera won’t do justice to this experience.
Final Thoughts: Is a Shinto Wedding Right for You?
A Shinto wedding in Japan is more than just a ceremony—it’s an experience of a lifetime. Every ritual, every sip of sake, every step through the torii gates carries centuries of meaning. If you want a unique, breathtaking, and deeply meaningful wedding, this is it.
And if you’re looking for a wedding photographer who knows Japan inside and out, I’d love to help capture your most unforgettable moments.
📸 Explore my wedding photography portfolio here: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 See my wedding photography packages: Investment Details
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding photography together! Contact me here: Get in Touch
Wherever love takes you—whether under the cherry blossoms of Kyoto or by the floating torii of Miyajima—I’ll be there to capture every joyful, magical, once-in-a-lifetime moment. ❤️
