WEDDING REPORT

AUTUMN TENSHO

Down a narrow alley off the bustling Takeshita Street in Harajuku lies the verdant Togo Shrine and Togo Kinenkan. A fusion of tradition unique to Japanese and foreign culture. We deliver a wedding that blends East and West to exude who you are as a couple.

A Shinto-style wedding ceremony that exudes ancient Japanese tradition. Rituals unique to Shinto-style weddings, such as the procession, the offering of the tamagushi (sacred branch), and the San-San-Kudo (Three-Times-Three Exchange of Nuptial Cups). The ceremony is conducted in an atmosphere so solemn that all attendees instinctively stand up straighter.

After the Shinto ceremony, the bride changes to a colorful wedding kimono. Then, on the lush private terrace, a photo session with the bridesmaids and ushers is held before the reception. Seeing this kimono worn for the first time lifts everyone’s spirits, bringing smiles to all faces.

The reception has now begun. The reception starts with the traditional breaking of a sake cask, perfect for the celebration. The cuisine at the table reflects the essence of Japan. The guests enjoy the couple’s hospitality as they take photographs.

In the latter half of the reception, the mood shifts with a change to Western attire. The venue has grown even more lively after the first bite of the wedding cake and first dance. A charming kiss is presented to the bride as well. The guests instinctively reach for their cameras to capture this beautiful moment.

At the close of the reception, warm hugs are exchanged to express gratitude for the hospitality. Another photo is taken with the bridesmaids and ushers in their new outfits. The expressions of the couple and guests convey just what a wonderful time they had. The Shinto ceremony and the spirit of hospitality unique to Japan, fused with a ceremony and foreign culture unique to an international-style wedding. It all made for a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime day made possible only by this couple.