Ella Lu, who often writes about what’s happening in Taiwan in the Japan Times, has an interesting article about how some young Taiwanese are coming to Japan to be married in traditional Shinto ceremonies.

Apparently, Taiwanese wedding ceremonies are loud, festival-like and very expensive. The Shinto ritual, on the other hand, is more solemn and subdued. No doubt the mystery and excitement of being married overseas also adds to the appeal.

The Kibune Shrine in Kyoto is only too happy to perform marriage ceremonies for couples from other countries.

“It is a wonderful wedding that impresses us very much,” said Akiyoshi Yamada, wedding coordinator at Kibune Shrine. “We are very pleased to know the couple and also thank them for choosing us.

“We welcome people from other countries very much to experience traditional Japanese culture,” he added. “Though wearing the wedding dress is good, I say the kimono is even better.”

A recently married couple believes that their Shinto wedding give them something that they can cherish throughout their entire marriage.

“It is an unforgettable experience, which we think will remind us that we should strive to keep our commitments to each other.”