Exploring Arranged Marriages in Japan: Miai and Omiai

When discussing arranged marriages in Japan, the terms 'Miai' or 'Omiai' are often used. However, these terms have different meanings compared to traditional arranged marriages found in other cultures. This article aims to clarify the differences and explore the nuances of "Miai" and "Omiai"

Understanding Miai and Omiai

The English term 'arranged marriage' translates to 'Miai' or 'Omiai' in Japanese. These terms, however, represent different concepts. Miai can be understood as a more formal matchmaking process, often mediated by a concerned family member, typically a mother or a female relative, introducing potential partners to her daughter or son.

For example, if a mother is concerned about her daughter not being married by her late 20s or early 30s, she might use her social network to find a suitable partner. This can involve asking friends if they know any single men who might be interested. This is a far cry from the more traditional forms of arranged marriages seen in other cultures, where the bride and groom may have little or no say in the process.

The Japanese Matching Process: Omiai Meetings

Omiai meetings are not the same as arranged marriages that may be more common in other countries. These meetings are more like a dating setup initiated by family members to introduce potential partners. Often, the process involves families matching suitable candidates, both under the guise of romance and through social gatherings.

These meetings are typically not immediate proposals; instead, there is a period of dating, often lasting at least six months to a year. The purpose of these meetings is to find a compatible partner with whom one can build a lasting relationship rather than simply finding a spouse through a strict matchmaking process.

Finding Your Partner through outras Methods

While traditional omiai meetings are common, there are other methods that people might use to find a partner. The term 'Goukon' refers to a matchmaking event typically organized by a colleague or friend. In a goukon, usually three men and three women make reservations for a group date at a bar. The event aims to find potential partnerships, but it is not as formal as traditional omiai.

The frequency of these different methods of meeting potential partners is varied:

tOmiai: About 5% of encounters tOther matching approaches: About 3% of encounters tNanpa (pickup style): About 2.5% of matches tOnline dating and matching apps: Increasingly accounted for more than 20% of matches

This data, provided by Chiaki Watanabe, indicates a shift towards more modern methods of meeting potential partners. Online platforms and online matches are becoming increasingly popular, reflecting a change in societal norms and preferences.

Conclusion

The concept of arranged marriage in Japan, specifically Miai and Omiai, is distinct from traditional arranged marriages in other cultures. While both involve family members introducing potential partners, the process is more casual and focuses on building a relationship over time. As more individuals are turning to modern methods like goukon and online dating, the landscape of romantic partnerships is evolving in Japan.

To find out more about these concepts and to read the original Japanese article by Chiaki Watanabe, I recommend using a translator if you cannot read Japanese.