Shinto WeddingCeremony
in the Ancient Japanese
Tradition

japanese style
wedding

A Japanese wedding ceremony
embracing the beautiful
traditions of Japan.

The traditional 'Shinzen Shiki' in Japan is a beautiful and solemn wedding ceremony conducted at sacred shrines or temple halls in wedding venues. Clad in traditional attire, the bride and groom pledge eternal love before the gods in this ceremony rooted in the spirit of Shinto, reflecting the rich culture and history of Japan. The moment of offering heartfelt gratitude and forging deep bonds before the divine captures the hearts of onlookers, making it a truly moving traditional Japanese wedding ceremony.

Shinto ceremony

The History and
Allure of the
Time-Honored Shinto-Style
Wedding Ceremony

The origin of wedding ceremonies is said to be the creation ritual of the first divine couple, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, famous as the deities of the oldest Japanese chronicle, the 'Kojiki.' Although marriage ceremonies were performed before the Meiji era, the distinct form of the 'Shinzen Shiki' (Shinto-style wedding) became clear and gained widespread popularity around 1900 (Meiji 33). This shift can be traced back to the socially significant marriage ceremony of the Crown Prince (later Emperor Taisho), which attracted considerable attention. It served as the prototype for the current style of Shinto-style weddings.

The basic flow of
a Shinto-style wedding ceremony

In the Shinto-style wedding ceremony, there are established manners, and the Shinto priest plays a role in facilitating the relationship between the deities and the attendees, conducting the ceremony. While the order may vary, We will introduce the general flow of a Shinto-style wedding ceremony.

  • Sanshin No Gi

    It refers to what is commonly known as the bridal procession. It involves preparing oneself with a consciousness akin to purifying the mind and body, taking each step with the intention of approaching the gods, in anticipation of the Shinto-style wedding ceremony.

  • Attendance of attendees

    After the Shinto priest, the groom, bride, and their relatives enter the shrine, they take their seats inside. In accordance with the perspective of the gods, the groom sits on the left, and the bride on the right.

  • Shubatsu No Gi

    The Rite of Purification is a ritual performed by a Shinto priest to cleanse and purify the sins or impurities that individuals may unknowingly commit. Prior to the wedding ceremony, the priest purifies all attendees as a preparatory step.

  • Kensen No Gi

    As offerings for the gods to partake, items such as salt, rice, sake, mountain delicacies, and sea treasures are presented before the divine in the Shinto ritual.

  • Norito Sojo

    To ensure that the two of you remain close and harmonious forever, we offer the 'norito' or 'words of celebration' to the gods, recited in the ancient Yamato language, as a prayer.

  • Fukusuzu No Gi

    The bride and groom, along with all the attendees, shake bells, receiving the blessings of the gods through the pure sound.

  • Shukumai Hoso

    In celebration of the marriage, shrine maidens will offer dances accompanied by traditional Japanese court music.

  • Sankon No Gi

    The ritual of the 'San San Kudo' involves the exchange of cups three times each with three different types of sake cups, totaling nine exchanges. This symbolizes the binding of the marital vows between the bride and groom.

  • Seishisojou

    The ritual where the bride and groom recite words of commitment and vows as a married couple.

  • Yubiwa Kokanzo Tenogi

    In the ritual of ring exchange and presentation, the groom places the wedding ring on the bride's left ring finger, and the bride reciprocates by placing the wedding ring on the groom's left ring finger.

  • Tamagushi Houtenshi

    The act of offering tamagushi is a ritual to strengthen the bond between the gods and the couple. Tamagushi refers to an offering to the gods using the branches of the sacred sakaki tree. It is said to symbolize oneself, representing the act of dedicating one's sincere feelings to the gods.

  • Shinzoku Ikkonnogi

    Marriage signifies not only the union of the bride and groom but also the creation of connections between their respective families. The ritual of the family's offering involves the entire extended family partaking in sacred sake, symbolizing the strengthening of the bond between the two families.

  • Tessen No Gi

    The ritual of removing offerings is a ceremony to take down the offerings presented during the ritual of offering.

  • leaving all employees

    The chief officiant, followed by the bride and groom, their families, and relatives, exits in order, concluding the Shinto-style wedding ceremony.

Fukushima Wakon

The Dignity of Traditional
Beauty and
the Modern Elegance of
Iwaya-style Japanese Weddings

We offer bespoke weddings tailored to the style of each individual guest. With a combination of shrines and chapels, we cater to a diverse range of customer needs. Providing unique Iwaya-style weddings that can't be found anywhere else, we propose original weddings customized for each guest. Our venues are equipped to accommodate a variety of preferences, ensuring a one-of-a-kind experience for every couple.

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    Dedication to Refined
    Japanese Traditional Kimono

    These are tailored from carefully selected fabrics from a long-established costume shop in Kyoto, the ancient capital where the Heian culture flourished. The patterns are authentic, as they are made from costumes worn at shrines and other festivals. These costumes are made in a traditional pattern called ‘yushoku monyo’, which has been handed down from the Heian period to the present day, mainly in the Imperial Palace.

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    Shinto Wedding Ceremony,
    Inheriting the Traditions of Ancient Japan

    Located in the heart of Iwaki City, our venue is easily accessible within 15 minutes from any major station. We also provide free parking and a shuttle bus service, ensuring a convenient and worry-free experience for you, your family, and friends.

  • feature3

    Seventy Years of
    Culinary Journey with 'Foodie Iwaya

    Experience a fusion of Japanese ingredients and Western flavors with our NY Style Wedding 'New Creative Cuisine NY Kaiseki' and the delicate, flavorful 'Wedding Washoku' that highlights seasonal ingredients. Here, you will find the pinnacle of the cherished 'spirit of hospitality' that we have upheld since our establishment over the years.

Wakon style

A Place for You and
Your Families to Lean on
Throughout Life's Journey

A Place to Manifest
Your Union,
Here and Always

A moment of blessing in
a special place that enriches
the lives of your loved ones.

Shinzen & Party space

A sacred shrine dedicated to
the deities of Ise Jingu,
coupled with
an elegant 'wa' (Japanese) space
that cherishes Japanese culture.

Shinto-Style Wedding Ceremony

Manjuden

Fulfilling the Childhood Dream: A Wedding Ceremony in Pure White Kimono and Cotton Hat

The 'Manjudo' enshrines the deities of Ise Jingu, emanating a refreshing scent of Japanese cypress. Clad in dazzling pure white, guided by the melodies of Gagaku, the sacred sake exchange of 'San San Kudo.' The wedding ceremony at the all-cypress-built 'Manjudo,' conducted by the Shinto priest and shrine maidens in the solemn atmosphere, remains a memorable and moving stage that honors the essence of Japanese spirit and tradition.

  • 【Facility Information】
  • ■Capacity: Up to 50 guests
  • ■Facility Overview: All-cypress-built Shrine

Elegant 'Wa' (Japanese) Ambiance

KOTOBUKI NO MA

Cherishing Japanese Culture,
an Elegant 'Wa' (Japanese) Atmosphere

A tatami-floored palace at Iwaya, where the traditional Japanese rooms, based on Shoin-zukuri architecture, have been welcoming guests for centuries. These rooms, consisting of four connected spaces with tatami mat flooring, have been spaces for entertaining guests, hosting banquets, and offering hospitality. Palace Iwaya's Japanese rooms offer the versatility of both traditional tatami-style seating and seated formal dining with tables and chairs.

  • 【Facility Information】
  • ■Capacity: Up to 26 guests
  • ■Facility Overview: Tokonoma (alcove) and sliding doors (fusuma), Screen installation possible
  • ■Area: 69 square meters (42 tatami mats)

Japanese Wedding Plan

In the Shrine Enshrining the Deities of Ise Jingu"
- "Intimate Shinto Wedding Ceremony Plan

A truly authentic Shinto wedding ceremony held in the city's only all-Japanese cypress ritual hall. In this temple filled with warm ambiance, create an everlasting moment of happiness etched into your hearts. Accommodates up to 60 guests.

[Ceremony Only Plan]

  • Weekdays: ¥275,000
  • Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: ¥385,000

[Included in the Plan]

  • Shinto-style wedding ceremony (including marriage certificate)
  • Groom's attire (full formal wear)
  • Bride's attire (full Shiro-Muku ensemble)
  • Hair and makeup services
  • Dressing assistance
  • Attendant
  • Offering assistance

[Example of the Schedule for the Day]

  • 9:00 Arrival and Preparation
  • 10:30 Introduction of Family Members
  • 11:00 Shinto-style Wedding Ceremony
  • 11:30 Photography Session

It is also possible to host a banquet or party after the ceremony.

Rental attire for attendees is also available.

Rich Locations Including Japanese Gardens and Shrines"
- "Japanese-Style Photo Wedding Plan

The cherished Japanese bridal attire that you've always wanted to capture as a memory of your marriage. Choose from an extensive collection of elegant and modest Shiro-Muku, vibrant Iro-Uchikake, and Hiki-Furisode among others. Our site boasts beautiful locations, including Japanese gardens and shrines, providing a stunning backdrop that complements traditional Japanese attire. Enjoy a variety of scenes for your photoshoot.

[Japanese-Style Location Photo Plan]

  • Japanese-Style Course: ¥264,000
  • Japanese-Style & Western-Style Course: ¥396,000

[Included in the Plan]

  • On-site location photoshoot
  • Groom's attire
  • Bride’s costume
  • Hair and makeup services
  • Dressing assistance
  • Attendant
  • One photo album
  • Photo data
  • Offering assistance

[Off-site Location Photoshoot]

  • If you wish to have a photoshoot at a location outside our venue, a travel fee (additional ¥110,000) is required. For details, please inquire.

Blidal Fair

The Consultation Event for Shinto-Style Wedding Ceremonies
and Japanese-Style Photo Sessions: Iwaya's Japanese Wedding Fair

Fair Schedule: Daily,
Time: 2-hour sessions

［Bridal fair details]

At Palace Iwaya, we host bridal fairs every day. At Iwaya's Japanese Wedding Fair, you can experience the charm of traditional Shinto-style wedding ceremonies and the beauty of bridal attire such as Shiro-Muku and Iro-Uchikake firsthand. We offer tours of the shrine and reception venues, visits to the attire salon for viewing and trying on outfits, and guidance on Japanese-style photo weddings by our wedding planners at the venue.

  • [Participation: Free]
  • Target Audience: Those considering weddings or photo shoots.

[Regarding Ceremonies at Other Shrines]

We also assist with wedding ceremonies at local shrines such as Ogawa Suwa Shrine, Kanpira Shrine, and Iino Hachimangu Shrine. We handle consultations, attire selection, preparations on the day of the ceremony, and the concluding aspects at our venue. Our planners, photographers, and attendants accompany you throughout the process. If you are interested, please feel free to inquire.

Bridal Fair Schedule for the Day

  • Consultation Session [Approximately 30 minutes]

    Our experienced planner will listen to your preferences during the consultation, and then propose an ideal wedding plan tailored to your desires. Feel free to discuss anything related to photos, wedding dates, preparation schedules, budget, and more.

  • Tour of the Authentic Shrine [Approximately 20 minutes]

    The 'Manjuden' shrine enshrines the deities of Ise Jingu. A refreshing scent of Japanese cypress fills the air, and the beautiful melodies of Gagaku, evoking nostalgia, resonate within the shrine.

  • Attire Salon Tour [Approximately 20 minutes]

    At our directly managed dress salon, we have over 200 dresses gathered from around the world, allowing you to find that one enchanting outfit of destiny. Whether it's Shiro-Muku or Iro-Uchikake, we offer a rich variety of options, ranging from classical patterns to modern designs, with a wide array of colors and patterns.

  • Venue Tour [Approximately 20 minutes]

    For those who wish to have a reception, we will guide you through six banquet halls of varying sizes with different interiors. You can experience the entrance scene, watch an emotional endroll, and get a simulated experience of the feelings on the actual wedding day.

  • Venue Tour [Approximately 20 minutes]

    For those who wish to have a photoshoot, we will guide you through the serene 'Japanese spaces' such as the lush Japanese garden, the all-Japanese cypress shrine, and the harmonious Japanese rooms. Explore the locations and let your imagination for the photoshoot take flight.

FAQ

About Bridal Fairs

  • What is Bridal Fairs?

    We host venue tours for couples planning to get married, allowing them to visit ceremony and reception venues. Additionally, we hold consultation sessions regarding weddings and photography to address any questions or concerns the couples may have.

  • Are English-speaking staff available?

    YAbsolutely. If you wish to have conversations in English, please let us know when making a reservation.

  • Can I attend the fair alone?

    Of course, it is perfectly fine to participate alone. Some individuals attend alone, while others come with their parents or friends. We welcome any arrangement that suits your preference.

  • Can I take my child with me?

    es, certainly. We have child-friendly amenities such as chairs, beds, playpens, and toys for your little ones. Our salon is designed to make it comfortable for you to have consultations while being with your children.

  • I live far away, can you accommodate me?

    "We also conduct online fairs every day. Consultations can be arranged through phone calls, emails, or online meetings. We are flexible in accommodating your preferences for communication and meetings.

Booking information

  • Do I need to make a reservation? And how many days in advance?

    For venue tours, wedding ceremonies, or photo weddings, reservations are required. Please make a reservation in advance to ensure we can accommodate your visit and provide the necessary assistance.
    【Reservation guidelines】
    ・Fair Reservations: Until 5:00 PM the day before
    ・Wedding Day Reservations: Up to 2 weeks before
    ・Photo Wedding Shoot Reservations: Up to 2 weeks before
    ・Wedding with Banquet Reservations: Up to 1 month before

  • How do I apply?

    Advance registration is required. Please visit Palace Iwaya in person.

About Attire and Beauty

  • Do you rent costumes for attendees?

    We offer various attire options such as long-sleeved kimono (留袖), visiting kimono , furisode, morning dress, and formal kimono with family crest.

  • Do you provide dressing and hair and makeup services for attendees?

    Of course, it is possible. Please inform us in advance of the number of people, as reservations are required.

  • What payment methods are available?

    Payment is made after the service. Cash, bank transfer, or card payment options are available.

About photo weddings

  • Can I select the costume and have the photoshoot done on the same day?

    Yes, of course. After choosing the attire and accessories, we will begin with hair and makeup.

  • Can I take pictures with my family and friends?

    Yes. It is absolutely fine for your family and friends to join the photo shoot. We also have a cafe space where they can wait.

  • Can I request a hairstyle or make-up?

    Yes, it is possible. Please bring images or ideas you have in mind for hair and makeup. If you prefer traditional Japanese hairstyles with items like cotton hats or decorative hairpins, we also have wigs and hair ornaments available (additional charges may apply).

  • How long does it take to shoot?

    It varies depending on the photo plan, but for a location photo session with one Japanese outfit, the shooting typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

  • Can I select photos for the album?

    Yes, it is possible.

Reservations/Inquiries

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