Experience
a Shinto Wedding
Overview of Shinto Wedding
Shinto weddings are traditional Japanese ceremonies uniting couples before the gods. Symbolizing purification and family union, they originated in the 8th century but gained popularity after the 1900 imperial wedding. Today, they blend ancient rituals with modern celebrations, immersing couples in Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Vows and Deities
At shrines, couples make vows to Shinto gods, honoring nature and ancestral deities. In temples, vows are based on Buddhist teachings, made to Buddha and ancestors. Both offer sacred, solemn atmospheres and can be chosen based on the couple's beliefs or family traditions. Either choice provides a blessed start to the couple's new life together.
Shinto Wedding Ceremony Process(Example)
A Shinto wedding ceremony typically follows these steps.
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Sanshin:
Couple's Procession to the Altar
Sanshin marks the couple's entry into sacred space. Their quiet walk shows respect for gods and marriage, symbolizing their shared commitment. This ritual purifies them for their vows.
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Shubatsu:
Symbolic Purification
The priest purifies the couple using a sacred cedar branch, removing worldly impurities. This ritual prepares them to enter the sacred marriage ceremony in a pure state.
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Norito-sojo:
Priest Reports Marriage to the Gods
The priest conveys the couple's marriage intention to the gods. This crucial moment seeks divine approval and blessings, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage.
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San-san-kudo:
Ceremony of Three Cups
Couple shares three cups of sake, three sips each. Cups symbolize past, present, future; sips honor gods, family, guests. Signifies marital bond and lifelong commitment.
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Seishi-sodomoku:
Reading of Vows
The couple pledges love and loyalty. This oath before gods and guests symbolizes the public and sacred promise of marriage.
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Ring Exchange:
Popular Modern Element
Couples exchange rings as symbols of eternal love. Though a relatively new, Western-influenced element, it's now common in many Shinto and Buddhist weddings.
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Tamagushi-hoten:
Offering Sacred Branches
The couple offers gratitude and prayers to the gods. This act expresses respect, thankfulness, and wishes for future blessings.
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Shinzoku-hai:
Family Cup Exchange
The families of the bride and groom share cups. This ritual blesses the union of two families and strengthens new familial bonds.
Each of these sacred rituals blends ancient traditions with modern elements, creating a unique and meaningful experience for couples beginning their new life together.
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Shinto wedding attire is rich in symbolism and elegance. The bride typically wears "shiromuku," a pure white kimono symbolizing purity and maidenhood.
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For those desiring more vibrant attire, a Shinto ceremony in colorful "iro-uchikake" is also possible. This kimono symbolizes prosperity and joy.
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The groom typically wears a formal black montsuki kimono with striped hakama trousers, expressing respect for tradition and dignity.
The Role of Shrines in Shinto Weddings
Shrines (jinja) are sacred spaces for traditional Japanese weddings. The main sanctuary (honden) hosts key rituals, while guests observe from the worship hall (haiden). Beautiful gardens and red torii gates often provide a stunning backdrop.
Sacred Vows at a Shinto Shrine
We specialize in traditional Japanese Shinto weddings for international couples.
Our services include:
- Kimono rental
- Shrine booking
- Hair, makeup, photography and videography
- Interpreter arrangement
- On-site interpretation
- Shinto expert guidance
- Comprehensive ceremony planning
Our English-speaking staff will support you throughout the process.
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Shinto Wedding Package
Ideal for couples seeking an authentic ceremony at a Japanese shrine or temple.
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Photo Session Package
Ideal for couples wanting photos in traditional Japanese wedding attire.
Steps to Shinto Wedding
We'll guide you through all preparations until your ceremony day. Enjoy peace of mind with our multilingual email support from inquiry to the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How far in advance can we book a Shinto wedding ceremony?
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Can you provide an estimate of the total cost for a Shinto wedding ceremony?
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How long does a Shinto wedding ceremony typically last?
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Is there a limit to the number of guests who can attend a Shinto wedding ceremony?
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Is there a rehearsal for the Shinto wedding ceremony?
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Is it possible to say our vows in our native language during the Shinto ceremony?
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Is it possible to have a photo session at tourist spots after the Shinto ceremony? Can you arrange this for us?
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Can you prepare souvenirs (such as omamori charms) for the Shinto wedding ceremony?
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Is there a service to have the Shinto ceremony professionally filmed and edited into a video later?
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Are there any guidelines for guest attire and items to bring to the Shinto wedding ceremony?