Wedding
and Large Parties
In Unique Locations and Japanese Temples
Photo
Credit : By JNTO
Hosting Parties or weddings in Japanese Temples
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| There is no more Japanese setting for your reception than the historic and traditional architecture of an ancient temple. Several temples and old historic buildings in Kyoto, many registered as National Treasures or as part of the World Heritage, offer their grounds for cultural exchange receptions. You can promise your guests a Japanese experience that they won't forget within the dignified air of tradition of an ancient temple. If planning to host a party at one of these unique venues, please keep the following in mind. | |
| Cost | |
| Receptions at temples can be very expensive. The most expensive part of the total cost is the rental of the temple itself, which is certain to be more expensive than banquet rooms at hotel or restaurants. The second biggest cost is lighting. Since almost no temples have light equipment, it must be prepared separately. Then, of course, there are the meals. At a hotel, the room rental includes the cost of meals, but this is not the case at temples. There will also be additional costs for personal expenses, attraction, and other arrangements. Though expensive, the party is certain to be a valuable experience for your guests. | |
| Attention to details | |
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Arranging receptions at temples requires an inordinate amount of planning. First, you must give the temple detailed information on the number of guests, type of reception, and other arrangements, keeping in mind that the temple staff are not professional planners. You must also be careful about cancellations. The temples do not have regulations regarding cancellation because they see the rental not as business, but as kindness. Cancellation at the last moment will cause serious trouble for the temple. You must also pay attention to what form your reception will take. Since most temples are collections of old wooden buildings that catch fire easily, the use of fire may is not allowed . In addition, there are spaces, usually important cultural properties, that will be off limits. |
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| Sample plan | |
| 1.Reception within temple buildings | |
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| 2.Garden party at an ancient temple | |
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The temple buildings that stage your reception will not only
be spaces to enjoy your meal, but also offer the opportunity for
a close-up look at their refined interiors.
The rooms
themselves will be decorated with the artistic displays of traditional
flower arrangements.It is also possible to experience the tea
ceremony before the festivities begin.The tea ceremony has a 450-year
history beginning with the first master Sen Rikyu, and it strongly
influenced mid-period Japanese Buddhist architecture. The harmony
of the refined interiors of the temple and the tea ceremony is
a unique experience not available anywhere else and is sure to
be a memorable part of any visit to Japan. Moving to the dinner
room, you can enjoy watching the chefs demonstrate their master
techniques preparing the food while the lit-up temple garden is
visible in the background.Entertainment such as Japanese drums,
classical dance or a cello performance will help liven the atmosphere.
Gardens are just as important
to the cultural heritage of temples as the buildings.Depending
on the number of guests, you can use the gardens at certain temples
for parties as well.