37 FramesJapan is a country of artistry, tradition, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But what does it actually cost to get married here? The truth is: Japan can be both accessible and extravagant. From intimate elopements under cherry blossoms to luxury celebrations in historic ryokans, the cost depends on your vision, guest count, and level of service.
This guide breaks down average wedding costs in Japan for 2025. From venues and planners to photography, attire, and extras … so couples can budget realistically and plan with confidence.
The Big Picture – Average Wedding Cost in Japan
- Local Japanese Weddings:The average Japanese couple spends between 3M–5M yen (USD $20,000–$35,000) for a 50–80 guest wedding, typically in hotel ballrooms or shrine packages.
- Destination Weddings (International Couples):International couples planning bespoke weddings in Japan usually spend 5.5M–12M yen (USD $37,000–$85,000+)for 30–100 guests, depending on venue, design, and cultural elements.
- Luxury Weddings:High-end, fully bespoke weddings at historic ryokans, luxury resorts, or cultural landmarks (Noh stages, Aman, Relais & Châteaux) start around 10M yen (USD $70,000) and scale upward.
Breakdown of Wedding Costs in Japan
1. Venues
- Hotels & Ballrooms: From 1.5M–3M yen ($10,000–$20,000). Often includes package menus and limited customization.
- Shrines & Temples: From 200,000–500,000 yen ($1,400–$3,500) for the ceremony only, plus rentals.
- Luxury Ryokans & Historic Venues: From 2M–6M yen ($14,000–$42,000) for exclusive use, sometimes including accommodation.
- Private Villas & Resorts: From 3M–8M yen ($21,000–$56,000) for destination buy-outs.
2. Wedding Planners
- Japanese Venue Coordinators: Often included in packages but limited to in-house vendors.
- Independent Planners (International Clients wanting an International Style Destination Wedding and not a Venue Package): From 500,000–1.5M yen ($3,500–$11,000), scalable with scope.
- Luxury Destination Planners: Typically 10%–20% of overall budget, with bespoke services for logistics, culture, and guest management.
👉 See our curated list of the Top Wedding Planners in Japan.
3. Photography & Videography
- Local Studios: From 100,000–300,000 yen ($700–$2,100) for short packages.
- Professional International-Level Photographers: From 500,000–1.2M yen ($3,500–$8,500) depending on hours and deliverables and quality.
- Luxury, Award-Winning Photographers: 1M yen+ ($7,000+), especially for full coverage, multi-day events, and heirloom albums.
👉 Explore the Top Wedding Photographers in Japan.
4. Attire & Styling
- Kimono Rentals: From 100,000–300,000 yen ($700–$2,100) depending on embroidery and accessories.
- Wedding Dresses (Rental): From 300,000–1M yen ($2,100–$7,000). Designer gowns often more.
- Hair & Makeup Artists: From 80,000–200,000 yen ($600–$1,400) for bride; grooms less.
5. Food & Beverage
- Japanese Kaiseki or Banquet: 15,000–25,000 yen ($100–$175) per guest.
- Cocktail Hours & Buffets: Slightly lower, but rare for luxury venues.
- Bespoke Catering / Michelin Star: From 25,000–40,000 yen ($175–$280) per guest.
6. Florals & Décor
- Basic Packages (Hotels): 200,000–500,000 yen ($1,400–$3,500).
- Bespoke Design: From 1M yen ($7,000+) for imported florals and full installations.
- Luxury Statement Designs: 2M yen+ ($14,000+) for multi-space styling.
7. Entertainment & Extras
- Traditional Performers (Shamisen, Koto, Taiko): 100,000–300,000 yen ($700–$2,100).
- DJ or Live Band: 200,000–700,000 yen ($1,400–$5,000).
- Cultural Experiences (Tea ceremony, Mochi pounding, Sake barrel opening): 100,000–300,000 yen each.
Elopement Costs in Japan
For couples seeking intimacy:
- Simple Elopement (Photo + Officiant): 400,000–800,000 yen ($3,000–$6,000).
- Luxury Elopement (Multi-location, planning, cultural elements): 1.2M–2.5M yen ($8,500–$18,000+).
👉 Learn more in our guide to Japan Elopements.
FAQs
How much does a wedding in Japan cost?
Anywhere from 3M yen ($20,000) for local packages to 12M yen+ ($85,000+) for luxury destination weddings.
Is Japan more expensive than other destination wedding countries?
Comparable to Italy or France for luxury, but with cultural experiences unique to Japan. Packages at shrines and hotels can be surprisingly affordable.
Can foreigners legally marry in Japan?
Yes, but paperwork is complex. Many couples handle the legal ceremony in their home country and celebrate symbolically in Japan.
What’s the most budget-friendly way to marry in Japan?
Elopements or small weddings at shrines, combined with photo sessions, are the most cost-effective.
What’s the most expensive wedding option in Japan?
Exclusive use of luxury ryokans, Aman or Rosewood resorts, or historic cultural venues with international-level production.
Closing
In Japan, wedding costs aren’t just about numbers. They’re about access to centuries-old traditions, dramatic landscapes, Michelin-star cuisine, and the seamless blending of Japanese hospitality with global luxury standards. Whether your budget leans toward intimate or lavish, Japan offers a spectrum of experiences … each unforgettable in its own way.
See a favourite 37 Frames wedding here: A celebrity wedding in Hawaii
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