In modern Japan, more than 70% of all marriages are referred to as "love marriages," the rest are the more traditional arranged marriages (omiai). When an arranged marriage is desired, the man and woman, who are seeking a marriage partner, enlist the help of a go-between (nakodo). This allows the couple to meet and get to know each other and decide if a marriage is suitable. It is quite common for the parents of the man and woman to be present at the first meeting. Afterwards the couple meets socially over a period of time and then decides, if both are acceptable, to marry. This may seem a little clinical in the west, but in Japan, with its high work ethic, and large population, it is hard for some people to meet someone of the opposite sex.
Unlike matchmakers, or dating services in the west, the go-betweens are not professional matchmakers, they are usually people that like to help out of goodwill. Sometimes a go-betweens will be given a percentage (10%) of the wedding preparation money that the groom gives the bride. This money allows the bride to prepare for, and pay, all the costs of the wedding.
Are there any noticeable advantages to this system? Yes. The nakodo with his/her knowledge and familiarity with both parties can bring together couples that should be suitable. Even after the marriage the nakodo can act as a marriage counselor to help the new couple with their problems. As a result, the number of arranged marriages in Japan that fail is very small.
With "love marriages" spouses are usually selected from friends and colleges (and siblings) who work at the same business or go to the same school. This is not always easy due to the busy Japanese work schedule.
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