Miai (見合い, matchmaking, literally look meet), or omiai (お見合い) as it is properly known in Japan with its honorific o in place, is a Japanese traditional custom which relates closely to western matchmaking, in which a woman and a man are introduced to each other to consider the possibility of marriage.

How do arranged marriages work in Japan?

Until the postwar period, most Japanese weddings were arranged through miai, formal meetings set up by a matchmaker. The practice continues today on a smaller scale, although the meetings are now typically arranged by specialist businesses.

Are arranged marriages still a thing in Japan?

Japan has a long history of arranged marriage, called omiai. Japan has changed its views somewhat and nowadays many people are choosing partners whom they know and love, but it is estimated that around 5% to 6% of Japanese still go down the arranged marriage route and opt to have their partners chosen for them.

How do marriages happen in Japan?

Marriage in Japan is a legal and social institution at the center of the household (ie). Couples are legally married once they have made the change in status on their family registration sheets, without the need for a ceremony.