Exchanging vows at one of Kyoto’s historic shrines, temples or imperial gardens during cherry blossom season could be an experience of lifetime. In Kyoto, the cherry blossom season typically takes place in early April.
Legal Requirements
No residency is required to get married in Japan. And couples do not have to post intents to marry. In fact, couples can be married the same day they apply for a marriage license. Couples must:
- Provide proof of single status to the ward or city office that you are legally free to marry.
- Submit an affidavit sworn in front of the appropriate authority at the Canadian Embassy or Consulates. This cannot be done through the mail. You must make an appointment.
- Bring your valid Canadian passport to your appointment. There is a fee associated with this service.
- Keep an original of the Certificate of Marriage Registration once your marriage is registered. This becomes your proof of marriage.
Service Options and Contacts
- Only civil marriages are legal.
- Acquiring a marriage certificate through the municipal government means the couple is legally married.
- Contact the ward or city office in the area they plan to get married.
- The Embassy in Tokyo: phone the Embassy’s Consular Section at 03-5412-6200; send a fax to 03- 5412-6289; or e-mail tokyo-consul@international.gc.ca. Consulate of Canada, headed by an Honorary Consul, in Sapporo Tel/Fax: 011-643-2520.
