There are several theories over the origin of Valentine’s Day in Japan, but it is widely believed to have arrived in Japan in the 1930’s. Morozoff, a famous Japanese confectionery company , started as a small chocolate shop in 1931 when it began a marketing campaign to encourage people to buy and send chocolates to loved ones on February 14th. Valentine’s Day in Japan is a day when romance, tradition, and sweet gestures come together. On this special day, you can find signs of love and warm affection everywhere, from mythology and natural symbols to unique gifts embodying Japanese culture's essence. These practices make Valentine's Day a fantastic celebration of love in all its forms! Japan also observes a unique reciprocal holiday on March 14th, known as White Day, where men return the favour to those who gifted them chocolates on Valentine’s Day. This was created by the confectionery industry in the late 1970s and has since become a firmly established part of our Valentine’s Day cycle. Valentine’s Day in Japan has a unique history and customs that many foreigners find interesting. According to the Japan Chocolate & Cocoa Association, this custom started in the 1950s. A chocolate company put up a handwritten “Valentine’s Sale” sign at Isetan department store in Shinjuku. It is an uncommon gift on Valentine’s Day, as mehonmei choco are traditionally expected to reciprocate Valentine’s gifts a month later, on White Day. Japanese Valentine’s Day chocolates Japanese White Day vs Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th, while White Day in Japan is celebrated a month later, on March In this article, we present 15 charming date spots and activities in Japan for a memorable Valentine's Day. From enchanting night vistas to captivating theme parks and serene nature spots, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Valentine's Day Destinations in Japan. Hokkaido 1. Otaru Canal Snow Light Festival 2. Hakodate City View from Mt From candlelit cruises to love-themed shrine visits, Japan offers an array of romantic experiences to make your Valentine’s Day truly special. Whether you prefer an intimate hot spring retreat or an enchanting night of lights and scenery, Japan has something for every couple looking to create lasting memories. Men/people who received chocolate on Valentine’s Day are expected to return the favor by gifting chocolate to women/Valentine’s Day chocolate givers. White Day was not really a thing in Japan until the 1980s, and the color white is thought to be associated with purity, especially when it comes to innocent teenage love in Japanese culture. Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and it's a day where many of us want to do something special with our significant other to celebrate. If you're looking for some ideas on how to spend Valentine's Day in Tokyo –or not too far afield– this guide has five suggestions. White Day in Japan (March 14th) Now, if you were thinking, “that’s a little unfair that the guys get all the gifts!” – don’t worry, because just a month later, on March 14th is when men are supposed to reciprocate all the love they received on Valentine’s Day. In Japan, gifting Chocolate on Valentine's Day is a two-way street as "White Day", a month later on March 14, people give reciprocal gifts in return for Valentine's Day! Aka, "giri-choco" or obligatory chocolate Origin of Valentine’s Day and its connection with Saint Valentine; How it became a global celebration of love; Valentine’s Day Celebrations Around the World. How different countries celebrate Valentine’s Day (e.g., USA, UK, India, Japan, France, South Korea) Unique traditions like White Day in Japan & Korea; Valentine’s Day for Singles Plano Valentine's Day 2025 Guide to Dining, Events, and Hotel Packages - Visit Plano is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Plano, Texas. Visit Plano represents tourism-related entities in such categories as lodging, dining, restaurants, arts & attractions, shopping, and transportation, as well as other companies indirectly involved in the visitor industry. Valentine's Day Candlelight Concerts Music Events . See all Music Events Candlelight Concerts Concerts Tourism . See all Tourism Top Attractions City Tours Activities . See all Activities Theme & Water Parks Games Sports & Adventure Immersive Experiences & Exhibits Culture . See all Culture Landmarks Museums & Art Galleries Candlelight Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World. Explore Valentine’s Day traditions from countries like Japan, South Korea, and Wales. This article highlights unique practices, such as Japan’s “White Day” and Wales’ tradition of exchanging carved wooden love spoons. The History of Chocolate Valentine's Day Activities for Kids. 35 arts and crafts, sensory, STEM, free printables and more. Perfect for toddlers and preschool. Unique Traditions of Valentine’s Day in Japan . As much as the history of Valentine’s Day is interesting, there is some surprising tradition on this day. Let’s take a look at how actually Japanese celebrate Valentine’s Day! Girls Give Chocolate to Boys. In Western culture, it is common for boys to give gifts to girls. In Japan, for example, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with a focus on expressing gratitude, while in Mexico, it is called El Día del Amor y la Amistad (The Day of Love and Friendship) and emphasizes appreciation for both friends and family. This lesson broadens students’ understanding of global traditions. White Day is a romantic holiday celebrated on the 14th of March, one month after Valentine’s Day. White Day in Japan is the day whereby the gifts received on Valentine’s Day are reciprocated. In Japan, only women give gifts to men, whether it be their co-workers, friends or romantic partners on Valentine’s Day. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with these romantic San Diego date ideas and fun activities for you and your sweetheart on February 14 this year.
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