A good friend who teaches at universities in Kyōto got married late in life, and had me give a speech in Japanese at the reception. I had wanted to keep it simple, but once my Japanese wife got involved, I ended up with all sorts of formal clothing and a more elaborate gift. The ceremonies were held at a hotel in the central city. The wedding chapel was inside the hotel but had windows above it. Typical of Japan, the ceremonies were eclectic, with Japanese and Western elements including songs like "Pretty Woman" and "I Can't Help Falling in Love with You" by Elvis (good for karaoke - I sang along). There was a recording of the bride dancing Nihon buyō (日本舞踊) based on Kabuki, and a powerful opera singer performed live.
