noun
Refers to formal rules of ceremony, protocol, or proper conduct in social or official settings. Often used in contexts like diplomatic protocol, religious rites, or traditional ceremonies.
外交の場では、礼典を重んじる必要がある。
In diplomatic settings, it is necessary to observe protocol.
この神社の礼典は古くから伝わるものだ。
The rituals of this shrine have been handed down since ancient times.
Compound of 礼 (rei, 'propriety, etiquette') and 典 (ten, 'code, rule, ceremony'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally yields the meaning of 'rules of etiquette' or 'ceremonial code'.