A Japanese wedding is an expensive affair… for the guest that is. As a guest, you are expected to give 30,000 yen (about $366 US dollars). If going as a couple, you are expected to give 50,000 yen (about $610 dollars). Additionally, it has to go into a special money envelope called a “shuugibukuro”. However, if you get married, they are expected to give you back the same amount you paid. So, they keep track and they definitely remember if you gave too little. But the intent is that you are helping them pay for the 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 yen reception. Usually, couples almost break even for the costs. There are other rules for giving money such as, always use new 10,000 yen bills, bills should be face up with the head near the opening of the envelope (inner envelope), and the lower flap of the outer decorative envelope should be on top of the upper flap so that happiness will be caught. Unfortunately, I can’t fit all the etiquette rules in this short story, but if you prepare even a little, it goes a long way. However, here’s one last tip, never wear a white or black tie to the wedding. White is generally for close relatives and black is only for funerals.