I was so lucky to come across a wedding ceremony while visiting the Meiji-Jingu shrine. A bridal couple came out of the main worship hall and started a wedding procession through the front open space of the entrance to the anteroom in another place. It lasted only five or less than ten minutes, but it was impressive and fantastic.
First, the procession began solemnly, but it turned out to be friendly when a crowd of tourists surged to see it and then cheered and applauded, which made the couple smile on their faces. International visitors also looked delighted and excited to encounter such a rare scene they witnessed.
It’s shameful that I didn’t know that the Meiji-Jingu shrine has provided many couples with authentic Shinto-style wedding rituals and ceremonies for a long time. I was also impressed with the beautiful and peaceful wedding atmosphere.
I think it was “Taian” day in the old 6-day Japanese calendar, which is believed to be the most auspicious day. When a Sunday is Taian, we, Japanese people, consider it the best wedding day to invite many guests to the ceremony. It’s because the Taian, which means Great Peace, sounds like bringing a peaceful future to the bridal couple and the attendants.
It must be difficult for international tourists to find when Taian is because I don’t think there is an English version of the old 6-day Japanese calendar. So, when you see the Japanese word “大安” (Taian) on a weekend or public holiday in the calendar at your hotel, it must be a big chance to see the traditional Japanese wedding procession in the Meiji-Jingu. Don’t miss it!!
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