marriage tradition in Japan

  In Japan, "shinzenshiki"(神前式) is the most famous marriage tradition style. It is held at a shrine, "jinjya"(神社). A bride will wear  a white wedding kimono, shiromuku(白無垢), and elegant hairstyle, which will be covered with the bride's hood. The groom will wear a hoary and hakama(羽織袴), a Japanese style kimono for men. It's common that only family members and close relatives of couples attend "shinzenshiki". After the wedding ceremonies, reception parties called kekkon hiroen(結婚披露宴) are held. Generally speaking, relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors are invited to the wedding receptions. People usually dress formally. Female guests wear dresses, suits, or kimono. Male guests often wear black formal suits. Wedding souvenirs are called hikidemono(引き出物). They are often towels, sweets, white tableware, and so on. If you will attend a Japanese wedding reception, you must not forget to bring cash for a gift!!