Tokyo is not just a city—it’s an experience. Imagine saying “I do” beneath cherry blossoms, with the iconic Tokyo Tower twinkling in the background, while a nearby ramen shop tempts your guests with the scent of freshly made broth. A Tokyo wedding is where old-world tradition meets futuristic elegance. Intrigued? Let’s dive into how to make your Tokyo destination wedding unforgettable.
Why Choose Tokyo for Your Wedding?
Tokyo offers a perfect mix of traditional Japanese charm and ultra-modern city vibes. Whether you dream of a serene Shinto shrine ceremony or a luxurious rooftop wedding with skyline views, Tokyo delivers. Plus, where else can you celebrate your wedding, grab sushi at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and end the night singing karaoke in matching yukatas?
Best Time to Get Married in Tokyo:
🌸 Spring (March – May): Cherry blossoms, romantic vibes, but also crowds.
🍁 Autumn (September – November): Mild weather, stunning red-and-gold foliage.
☀ Summer (June – August): Hot, humid, and typhoon season—unless you love the heat.
❄ Winter (December – February): Less crowded, crisp air, and cozy indoor venues.
Best Wedding Venues in Tokyo
Tokyo’s wedding venues range from zen gardens to sky-high luxury hotels. Here are some stunning choices:
🏯 Traditional Japanese Wedding Venues
1. Meiji Jingu Shrine – The most iconic Shinto shrine for a cultural, sacred ceremony. Think: centuries-old traditions, kimono-clad brides, and a deeply spiritual setting. (Website)
2. Happo-en – A hidden gem with a breathtaking traditional Japanese garden and tea house. If you dream of a kimono-clad wedding among 300-year-old bonsai trees, this is it. (Website)
3. Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo – A luxury hotel featuring a stunning historic garden, perfect for Western and Japanese-style weddings. Bonus: the garden is illuminated at night. (Website)
🌆 Modern & Luxury Wedding Venues
4. The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo – A high-end, sky-high wedding venue in Roppongi with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city. Think champagne towers, chandeliers, and elegance. (Website)
5. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo – Perfect for sophisticated, intimate weddings with Michelin-starred dining and a breathtaking cityscape backdrop. (Website)
6. Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta – If you’re a Disney couple, get married inside Tokyo DisneySea for a magical, fairy-tale setting. (Website)
How to Get Legally Married in Japan
Marrying in Japan as a foreigner is easier than you think. Here’s what you need:
1️⃣ Affidavit of Competency to Marry – Get this from your embassy in Japan.
2️⃣ Visit a Local Ward Office – Bring your passport, affidavit, and a completed application.
3️⃣ Translation Required – All documents must be translated into Japanese.
4️⃣ Receive Your Marriage Certificate – Once processed, your marriage is official in Japan!
🔗 Check requirements by country here
The Cost of a Wedding in Tokyo: What to Expect
Weddings in Tokyo can range from affordable to ultra-luxurious, depending on the venue, guest count, and extras. Here’s a rough breakdown:
💰 Budget Wedding (~$5,000) – Simple legal wedding + garden photoshoot + intimate dinner.
💎 Mid-Range Wedding (~$20,000) – Shrine ceremony, reception at a boutique hotel, full photography package.
👑 Luxury Wedding ($50,000+) – 5-star hotel venue, top-tier catering, live music, and premium kimono rentals.
💡 Pro Tip: Many venues offer wedding packages that bundle ceremony, reception, catering, and photography for a better deal.
Photography & Best Wedding Photo Spots in Tokyo 📸
A Tokyo wedding isn’t complete without stunning photography. Here are some must-have photo spots:
✨ Shinjuku Gyoen – Perfect for cherry blossom or autumn foliage shoots.
🏯 Senso-ji Temple – Classic old-Tokyo vibes with dramatic red pagodas.
🌃 Shibuya Crossing – Iconic, fast-paced, and uniquely Tokyo!
🌳 Ueno Park – Tranquil and beautiful in any season.
🔗 Need an experienced photographer to capture your Tokyo love story? Check out my portfolio here: Your Happy Moments
Planning Tips for Your Guests
Flying guests into Tokyo? Here’s how to make their experience seamless:
✈ Flights & Transportation: Haneda Airport (closer to the city) or Narita Airport. The Tokyo Metro is efficient, but taxis can be pricey. Provide guests with preloaded IC cards for easy train access.
🏨 Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Aman Tokyo (Website)
- Mid-Range: Park Hotel Tokyo (Website)
- Budget: Shinjuku Granbell Hotel (Website)
🍣 Where to Eat: Treat your guests to kaiseki dining, sushi bars, and izakayas.
🎎 Fun Activities: Organize kimono rentals, tea ceremonies, or sumo match viewings!
FAQs: Your Tokyo Wedding Questions Answered
❓ Can foreigners legally get married in Japan?
Yes! Just follow the simple paperwork process at a local ward office.
❓ How much does a wedding in Tokyo cost?
It varies! A simple legal wedding is free, while a full-scale wedding can range from $5,000 to $50,000+.
❓ When is the best time for a wedding in Tokyo?
Spring and autumn offer the best weather and most beautiful scenery.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Tokyo Wedding Unforgettable
A destination wedding in Tokyo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you want a cultural, intimate affair or a glamorous city celebration, Tokyo offers it all. And what’s a perfect wedding without stunning photography to capture every moment?
📸 Let’s create your love story together! Check out my wedding photography packages here: Investment
📩 Want to discuss your dream Tokyo wedding? Contact me here: Get in Touch
Now You’re Ready for Your Tokyo Wedding Adventure! 🎉
Planning a wedding in Tokyo might seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it’s exciting, romantic, and totally worth it. So, are you ready to say “I do” in the heart of Japan? 😉
