Dreaming of a breathtaking Japanese wedding? Whether you’re envisioning a serene Shinto ceremony under Kyoto’s cherry blossoms, a luxurious Tokyo hotel affair, or a beachfront wedding in Okinawa, planning your big day in Japan is an exciting adventure. But let’s tackle the big question:
How long does it actually take to plan a Japanese wedding?
The short answer: 12-18 months is ideal, but if you’re determined (or slightly reckless), you can pull it off in 6 months with some strategic planning. Let’s break it down step by step!
Step 1: The “We’re Really Doing This!” Phase (12-18 Months Before)
This is when excitement kicks in—and so does the overwhelming realization that there are a million decisions to make.
Key To-Dos:
✅ Choose your wedding location: Kyoto’s ancient temples? A modern Tokyo rooftop? A tropical Okinawa beach? Each setting has its own charm, and venues book fast! Check out Japan National Tourism Organization for ideas.
✅ Set your budget: Japan offers both intimate and extravagant wedding options. Decide what fits your vision.
✅ Decide on your wedding style: Traditional Shinto, Western-style, or a blend of both? This will influence your venue, attire, and ceremony structure.
✅ Start researching legal requirements: If you’re a foreigner getting married in Japan, check out Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for marriage paperwork details.
📝 Pro tip: If guests are flying in from abroad, consider their travel needs early—Japan is an amazing destination, but planning their logistics in advance is a game-changer!
Step 2: The “This Just Got Real” Phase (9-12 Months Before)
At this stage, you’ve committed. Your Pinterest board is out of control, and your Google search history includes “how to say ‘I do’ in Japanese.” (It’s “hai”, by the way).
Key To-Dos:
✅ Book your venue: Popular shrines and luxury hotels can be booked out a year in advance. Secure your spot now!
✅ Hire your vendors: Photographers (👋 Hi! More on that later), florists, and makeup artists are in high demand. Lock in your dream team early.
✅ Plan guest accommodations: Whether it’s a Kyoto ryokan or a stylish Tokyo hotel, let guests know their best options.
✅ Sort out the ceremony details: If opting for a Shinto wedding, you’ll need to book a shrine and work with a priest. For a Western-style wedding, hotels and chapels offer full-service packages.
💡 Did you know? In Japan, wedding invitations follow strict etiquette. They’re often beautifully designed and should NEVER be written in red ink—it symbolizes endings!
Step 3: The “Oh Wow, This is Happening” Phase (6-9 Months Before)
By now, your wedding is shaping up, but there’s still a lot to do!
Key To-Dos:
✅ Finalize your attire: Will you wear a traditional shiromuku (white wedding kimono) or a Western dress? Or both? Outfit changes are common in Japan!
✅ Book entertainment: A traditional shamisen player? A live jazz band? A J-pop DJ? Choose what fits your style.
✅ Plan your wedding favors: Many couples opt for custom chopsticks or wagashi (Japanese sweets) as guest gifts.
🎎 Fun fact: At traditional Japanese weddings, there’s a san-san-kudo ritual, where the couple drinks sake in three sips from three different cups—symbolizing their bond and unity.
Step 4: The “Final Countdown” Phase (3-6 Months Before)
The to-do list is getting shorter, but now it’s all about refining the details.
Key To-Dos:
✅ Send out invitations: Traditional invites are sent about 2-3 months before the wedding. If you have international guests, give them extra time.
✅ Plan the nijikai (after-party): In Japan, weddings often have a formal reception, followed by a more relaxed after-party with close friends. This is your chance to let loose!
✅ Cake tasting & menu selection: Japanese wedding cakes are often lighter and less sugary than Western ones—think elegant mousse cakes rather than buttercream overload.
Step 5: The “OMG, It’s Almost Here” Phase (1-3 Months Before)
Now, it’s all about fine-tuning. This is when you triple-check details, confirm bookings, and mentally prepare for the best day of your life.
Key To-Dos:
✅ Confirm RSVPs & seating charts: In Japan, seating is meticulously arranged based on hierarchy and relationships—make sure you’ve got it right!
✅ Practice the ceremony: Whether it’s a Shinto ritual or a Western vow exchange, a rehearsal helps calm those pre-wedding nerves.
✅ Pack for your big day: If you’re traveling for a destination wedding in Japan, make sure all passports, attire, and wedding essentials are ready.
📌 Bonus: Make a checklist of last-minute items, including rings, vows, and tissues (because happy tears are guaranteed)!
Step 6: The Big Day (It’s Finally Here!)
You made it! Whether you’re saying vows under a Kyoto torii gate, exchanging rings in a Tokyo glass chapel, or celebrating with fireworks over the Okinawa coastline, this is your moment. Take it all in.
Final Thoughts: So, How Long Does It REALLY Take?
12-18 months is the sweet spot, but with flexibility, 6-9 months is possible. Japan offers a seamless mix of tradition and modern elegance, making it one of the world’s most unique wedding destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to plan a Japanese wedding?
Most couples take 12-18 months, but smaller weddings can be planned in 6-9 months with flexibility.
Can foreigners get legally married in Japan?
Yes! Foreigners can legally marry in Japan, but paperwork is required. Check Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for details.
What is a traditional Japanese wedding like?
It often includes a Shinto ceremony, san-san-kudo (sake-sharing ritual), and multiple outfit changes for the bride.
Want Stunning Photos of Your Japanese Wedding? Let’s Talk!
Your wedding in Japan is going to be breathtaking, and you deserve to have every moment captured beautifully. As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in turning magical moments into timeless memories.
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