Traditional Wedding Ceremony

The predominant religion in Japan is Shinto and thus most wedding ceremonies are patterned in Shinto tradition.  Shinto means the “way of the Gods” ( the way of the “Kami”).  Wedding in the Shinto tradition is held in Shinto shrine with the presence of family members and close friends. Nowadays, a Shinto Shrine maybe found in hotels where the occasion takes place.  A Shinto priest who administers the wedding starts the ceremony by purifying the bride and groom.  After the purification and announcement of wedding vows, the ancient tradition of “sake” toast called “ san san kudo” is done. Symbolic offerings to the “Kami” is done by the newly wed couple. The whole wedding ceremony is entertained by traditional Japanese music using flutes.