February 14th is the day of love! And who doesn’t love love? 💖
I suppose some people may think that Valentine’s day is just another over-commercialised holiday, and that we should show our affection to our loved ones all year round, not just this one day… But actually, I think it’s a great excuse to go the extra mile and treat those you love.
After all, there’s no harm welcoming a little extra love in our lives.
Each culture has their own way of celebrating Valentine’s Day and expressing love for one another, and Japan dedicates not one, but two days of the year to this love-ly holiday!
Here’s everything you need to know about Valentine’s Day in Japan, and its companion holiday, White Day.
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Valentine’s Day in Japan (February 14th)
Valentine’s Day in Japan (バレンタインデー / barentain dee), like the rest of the world, is all about expressing your love to your nearest and dearest! Though, there are slight differences to the Valentine’s customs in the West:
In Western countries, the effort is generally put in by both parties – though often, more effort is expected from the man in the relationship. Valentine’s day is his chance to go all out and spoil his significant other with gifts and affection.
Although you might not agree with the concept, Valentine’s Day in Japan is actually a day to give gifts to men, from women!
What’s more, in Japan it is seen as the woman’s responsibility to give gifts to all the males in her life – not only her love interest!
What to gift on Valentine’s Day
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