Why 8 Japanese Weddings Traditions Are Total Goals

If you thought your friend’s wedding was fun, just wait till you hit a Japanese wedding. Holy moly have they got some seriously epic soul-stirring Japanese traditions (in the best way, ofc), and we’re about to spill the tea on some of ‘em. So without further ado and only *I DOs*—let’s get this party started! Kanpai!

01

ZENsational Bridal Glow with Chōzuya

Before all the wedding festivities kick off n’ all, there’s this supes chill moment called Chōzuya. It’s like a mini spa treatment where everyone gets to cleanse themselves with water from a special basin. Think of it as hitting that much-needed refresh button just before diving into all the good stuff. It’s the perfect way to wash away those pre-wedding jitters and get the good vibes floooowing.

02

Yuino BCZ It’s Rainin’ Gifts, Hallelujah!

Not long before the vows are exchanged, there’s this gift-swap party with both families that will totes make you go *awww*. It’s kinda like Secret Santa tbh, but way more meaningful. They go ALL out with these symbolic presents—we’re talkin’ stuff like fancy seaweed, for good luck ofc, and strong hemp thread (because tight-knit is how we roll). And it’s not just about the gifts—they’re packing up all the love in the world into these lil treasures. Can you even?! Imagine starting your forever with all that good juju.

03

Sake, Sip, Repeat

Three little sips of sake = one giant step toward their happily ever after. The first sip? For sealing the sweet sweet deal between the couple. Second? Bringing the families together (aww!). And the third? All about wishing for a happily ever after. I mean, how cute is that? This tradition isn’t just about drinking—it’s bonding over tiny and cutesy lil sake cups. You sip, they sip, we all sip for love! #SipSipHooray!

04

Shiro-Muku For The Win!

Shiro-Muku is a s-t-u-n-n-i-n-g all-white kimono that’s waaay more than just a pretty outfit. Trust us, it’s got all the elegance and charm you could ever ask for. Like imagine floating down the aisle looking absolutely ethereal? Hecks yea, slay queen! Honestly, it turns the whole wedding into this magical fairytale vibe, but with a modern twist. It’s totally the kind of tradition that makes you appreciate how ceremonies can be both meaningful and totally killer stylish at the same time.

05

Be The QUEEN Of Outfit Changes

Get ready to rock not just one, but multiple extraordinary fits throughout the day. We’re talkin’ a full-on fashion show ladies—kicking off with a sweet and traditional vibe, and wrapping up the night with each guest in awe of the showstopper! It’s like being the *watashi wa star* of your own magazine spread, but way more fun. You’re not just walking down the aisle; you’re owning each step like it’s New York Fashion Week. I mean, why settle for one dreamy outfit when you can live out all your fashion fantasies in one day?

06

The Sake Barrel Break We All Deserve

Okayyy, this tradition is seriously hands down the most epic way to say “cheers” to forever. Imagine smashing open a sake barrel to kick off married life with your boo. It’s called Kagami-biraki and it’s way more exciting than just poppin’ a plain ol’ champagne bottle, agreed? Talk about starting your marriage with a bang! Plus, it’s a total icebreaker—nothing says “let’s party” quite like breaking stuff together. Sign. Us. Up.

07

A Banzai Toast To Forever With The Wedding Crew

Soooooo there’s this thing called the Banzai toast, and it’s straight-up party goals. The whole room turns into the most incredible hype circle e-v-e-r. Everyone gets super pumped and shouts “Banzai!” not once, not twice, but three times! And when we say shout, we mean SHOUT. Imagine all your faves cheering you on—total squad goals tbh.

08

Hit That Jackpot With Hikidemono, Baby!

You know how everyone and their grandma loves a good party favor? Well, Japanese weddings kick it up a notch with Hikidemono. These aren’t your average Joe Shmoe goodie bags—we’re talkin’ fancy-schmancy gifts like luxury towels, fancy teas, sleek kitchenware, you know, just the kinda stuff that’ll make your guests feel likeVIPs. Nbd.

A little old, a little new—Japanese weddings, a dream come true! Now that’s what we call a lit celebration. BTW, who else is suddenly craving a trip to Japan? Anyone? Just us? Until next time, keep dreamin’ big and lovin’ bigger. Sayonara, sweethearts!

P.S. Hold up! Since you’re already here, why not sneak a peep at Jewish Wedding Traditions and Mexican Wedding Traditions?

With her home in Canada and her heart in the world, Tasha brings a light and breezy touch to her writing. Her adventures around the globe feed into her creative content, infused with a lively, approachable style that mirrors her adventurous spirit. Follow her adventures at The Planet Compass.”