Nosai no Gi (Ceremony of Exchanging Betrothal Presents) (納采の儀)
Nosai no gi is one of the imperial ceremonies. It is performed before the marriage of an Imperial Family member, which is an origin of yuino (exchange of betrothal gifts).
History
The history of Nosai no gi is so long that it is believed to go back to the age of Emperor Nintoku.
It is generally believed to 'correspond to the yuino,' and actually 'Nosai no gi' was widespread among the general public as 'yuino.'
Summary
Nosai no gi for a male imperial member
The emperor and the empress, who are parents of the imperial member, in the case of Miyake (families allowed to hold status as Imperial family), the parents of the imperial member, send a messenger to the bride-to-be's parents' house with gifts.
The messenger tells the bride-to-be's parents that he was sent for Nosai, and presents the gifts.
The parents receive the gifts.
The messenger reports to the emperor and the empress that the gifts were received.
Nosai no gi for a female imperial member
A messenger of the female imperial member and the husband-to-be visits the Imperial Palace (residence of the Miyake) with gifts.
The grand chamberlain welcomes the messenger.
The messenger informs that he was sent for Nosai, and presents the gifts.
The grand chamberlain presents the gifts to the emperor and the empress, and informs that the gifts were presented for Nosai.
The emperor and the empress receive the gifts.
The grand chamberlain tells the messenger that the gifts were received by the emperor and the empress.
The messenger reports the reception of the gifts.
Celebration
After Nosai, a celebration is held. A party for celebrating Nosai is held, where participants congratulate Nosai.
Gifts
Male and female sea breams, three bottles of sake, and donsu (damask) are presented.