Japan sees business opportunity as destination for overseas weddings
An Israeli couple chose to hold their wedding in Daisen, Japan, citing a desire for a culturally unique experience that aligned with their personal values. The local tourism industry is increasingly catering to international couples seeking destination weddings.
Why it matters
This trend reflects Japan's growing efforts to diversify its tourism sector by offering specialized cultural experiences to international visitors.
DAISEN, Tottori -- Holding a brand-new wedding ring, the bride said, "You are like this tourmaline stone to me. You always guide me to be calm and positive." The groom wiped away tears as he told her, "I will always be by your side so you can lean on my shoulder anytime" as the couple exchanged vows in Hebrew at a Shinto shrine here overlooking the Sea of Japan.
A fusion of cultures more special than anything
The couple were Israelis Gil Hason, 34, and Niv Yohanok, 33. The two met in Tel Aviv, but Yohanok did not want to hold the ceremony in his own country. He told the Mainichi Shimbun that in Jewish weddings, there is a ritual that feels as if it looks down on women, which he thought didn't fit the way the couple lived.
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