Minimalist wedding trends rise among youth in China and Japan

A growing trend toward minimalist and budget-friendly weddings is emerging among younger generations in China and Japan as couples prioritize practicality over traditional extravagance.

In China, many young people are adopting ‘minimalist’ or ‘three-no’ wedding styles—eschewing professional emcees, luxury car fleets, and expensive attire. Some couples have reported wedding costs as low as 16,000 yuan, with grooms purchasing attire online for minimal prices. This shift is driven by a desire to avoid vanity and instead use saved funds for household essentials or travel. Industry data suggests that in some major Chinese cities, nearly 70% of couples now prefer small banquets or reduced wedding procedures.

Similarly, in Japan, services like Sumakon are catering to couples looking to reduce the high average costs of traditional ceremonies. By utilizing partner venues and offering post-ceremony payment options, these services aim to make weddings more accessible to those with limited savings. While these budget options provide flexibility, consumers are advised to carefully review contracts regarding cancellation fees and additional costs.