LETTER FROM TOKYO
In Japan, the new 10,000 yen (62 euros) note is causing some discomfort among newlyweds. At issue: the figure illustrating the cut in circulation since July. Eiichi Shibusawa (1840-1931), industrialist, philanthropist and author of numerous works, was chosen because he “offers images of success and openness to the world” et “remains associated with a peaceful and international Japan”, explained to Monde, in 2021, Patrick Fridenson, historian and character specialist.
The man is considered the “father of the modern Japanese economy”. Only here: he is also a notoriously unfaithful husband, known for his stupidity – he even went so far as to impose the presence of his mistress on his wife in the marital home.
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Unsurprisingly, this goes badly during Japanese weddings. During these ceremonies, it is customary to leave an envelope containing a monetary donation at the reception desk. Depending on the proximity to the spouse(s), the amount can range from 10,000 to 50,000 yen, or even more. Politeness requires only using new notes – and therefore in theory, since they have just been printed, those on which Eiichi Shibusawa appears. However, 30% of those questioned would consider their use inappropriate, according to a survey by the wedding planning agency Tokihana.
“The bride and groom can refuse”
The subject became so widespread that the October 3 edition of the television program “Good!” Morning”, broadcast on the private channel Asahi, was based on the following theme: “Eiichi Shibusawa being associated with infidelity, old posts featuring Yukichi Fukuzawa [intellectuel de l’ère Meiji] should be preferred for wedding gifts. » Susumu Kojima, mayor of Fukaya, the industrialist’s hometown located north of Tokyo, felt obliged to react: “It’s not just women in Mr. Shibusawa’s life. He did all sorts of things. »
On the site specializing in legal issues Bengo4.com, lawyer Ryuji Nishiguchi explains that“offering a wedding gift constitutes a gift contract (article 549 of the civil code). As it is a contract, the bride and groom can refuse it”. The lawyer considers it regrettable that the image of the ticket could upset the relations between the bride and groom and their guests, but he still thinks “bring a 10,000 yen bill bearing the image of Yukichi Fukuzawa” at the next wedding he attends.
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As for the weekly Josei Jishinhe reminds that the tickets featuring Yukichi Fukuzawa will soon disappear and that it is impossible to choose those withdrawn from the vending machines. And concludes: “Rather than getting lost in obscure mannerisms, it is better to focus on the gift given with sincerity and in a spirit of celebration. »
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