So, you’ve decided to get married in Japan? Maybe you’re dreaming of a cherry blossom elopement in Kyoto, or perhaps you just want to make it official in a place where every corner looks like a postcard. Either way, welcome to the wonderful (and slightly bureaucratic) world of Japanese marriage registration!
Unlike a quick Vegas wedding where you just show up and say “I do,” Japan loves its paperwork. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide that will not only make the process easier but also entertain you along the way.
Step 1: Gather Your Marriage Documents (a.k.a. The Paperwork Party)
Before you head to city hall, you’ll need to collect some important documents. Here’s your checklist (yes, Japan loves lists!):
✅ 1. Marriage Registration Form (Kon’in Todoke – 婚姻届)
This is the big one—the form that officially makes you spouses. You can pick it up at your local city hall (市役所 – shiyakusho) or ward office (区役所 – kuyakusho).
💡 Fun Fact: Some city halls offer cute versions with cherry blossoms or anime characters. If you’re lucky, you might even get a Pikachu-themed form!
👉 You’ll need two witnesses (20+ years old) to sign this form. They can be friends, family, or even that nice couple you met at the ramen shop last night.
✅ 2. Passport (For Foreigners)
A valid passport is required for non-Japanese citizens. Please make sure it’s not expired (trust me, it happens).
✅ 3. Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) or Affidavit of Competency to Marry
This is proof that you’re not already married to someone else (Japan is big on monogamy).
- You can get this from your home country’s embassy in Japan.
- Some countries have different names for it (Affidavit of Competency, Declaration of Freedom to Marry, etc.), but they all serve the same purpose.
Check your country’s embassy for details:
✅ 4. Japanese Translation of Your CNI
Japan loves paperwork in Japanese. Even if your embassy gives you a document in English, you’ll need a Japanese translation. The good news? You can translate it yourself—just be accurate!
✅ 5. Residence Card (For Foreign Residents in Japan)
If you live in Japan, bring your Zairyu Card (在留カード). If you’re just visiting, you can skip this step.
✅ 6. Family Registry (Koseki Tohon – 戸籍謄本) [For Japanese Citizens Only]
If your partner is Japanese, they’ll need their family registry certificate. They can get this from their hometown’s city hall.
Step 2: Submit Your Application (a.k.a. The Moment of Truth)
Once you have all the documents, head to the local city hall or ward office where your Japanese partner is registered (or any ward office if both of you are foreigners).
💡 No ceremony is required—as soon as your paperwork is accepted, you’re legally married!
🎉 What happens next?
- You’ll get a Kon-in Todoke Juri Shomeisho (婚姻届受理証明書)—proof that your marriage is official.
- You can request an official Marriage Certificate (Kon-in Todoke Kisaijiko Shomeisho – 婚姻届記載事項証明書) for visa applications, name changes, and bragging rights.
📢 Important: Some countries require you to register your Japanese marriage back home. Check with your embassy!
Step 3: Celebrate Your Marriage in Japan (Because You Deserve It!)
Now that the legal stuff is done, it’s time to celebrate! 🎊
Where to Have a Beautiful Wedding in Japan?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding ceremony (beyond city hall), here are some stunning locations:
🌸 Kyoto – Traditional shrine weddings in kimono (Kyoto Travel Guide)
🌆 Tokyo – Chic rooftop ceremonies with a skyline view (Tokyo Tourism)
🏝 Okinawa – White sandy beaches and tropical vibes (Okinawa Travel Guide)
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Trust Me, These Happen a Lot)
🚫 Forgetting a required document. Always double-check the list!
🚫 Not getting a Japanese translation of your CNI. City halls won’t accept it otherwise.
🚫 Assuming there’s a ceremony. Unlike some countries, there’s no exchange of vows at city hall. If you want a ceremony, you’ll need to plan it separately.
🚫 Not checking if your home country recognizes a Japanese marriage certificate. Some require extra registration steps!
FAQs About Getting Married in Japan
💡 Can two foreigners get married in Japan?
Yes! Both partners just need to provide proof that they are legally free to marry.
💡 How long does the marriage registration take?
If you have all the required documents, your marriage is registered on the same day.
💡 Can I change my last name after marriage?
Japan doesn’t automatically change your last name. If you want to take your partner’s surname, you’ll need to apply separately.
💡 Do we need a wedding ceremony?
Nope! The city hall registration is all you need for a legal marriage. But a wedding ceremony is always a great idea for photos and memories.
Final Thoughts (And Why You Need an Amazing Wedding Photographer 😉)
Getting married in Japan is a unique experience—a mix of romance, tradition, and a bit of bureaucracy. But trust me, once you’ve navigated the paperwork, the real fun begins. Whether you’re eloping in Kyoto, having a Shinto shrine ceremony, or simply saying “I do” over sushi, your love story deserves to be captured beautifully.
📸 Looking for a wedding photographer who knows how to tell your love story with creativity and emotion? I’d love to capture your special day!
✨ Explore my wedding photography portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 See my wedding photography packages: Investment Details
💌 Let’s plan something magical together! Contact me here: Contact Me
Because your love story deserves more than just a legal stamp—it deserves unforgettable moments. 💕
