Valentine’s Day and White Day are the days of lovers in Japan

There are two important days for couples in love in Japan. Although both dates have been adopted from the West, the Japanese have created their own unique traditions and meanings. Learn more about Valentine’s Day and White Day, the days of lovers in Japan.

14th of February. Valentine’s Day in Japan

Valentine’s Day is a popular celebration that has been adopted in Japan for the past few decades. Unlike other countries, where February 14 is mainly a celebration for couples, in Japan it is also an occasion to show affection and appreciation to friends. Valentine’s Day in Japan is known as “Valentine’s Day” or “Barentain Dei“. Japanese women usually give chocolate to men, whether they are their husbands, boyfriends, friends or Valentine’s Day and White Day on Valentine’s Day in Japan to co-workers.

Japanese women often give chocolate to men, be they their husbands, boyfriends, friends or co-workers. Two types of chocolate are given, the “giri-choco” that is given to friends and colleagues as a token of friendship and appreciation, and the “honmei-choco” that is given to the couple. In addition to chocolate, it is also customary for couples to go out for dinner or some other type of entertainment to celebrate their love on February 14. The shops and streets are dressed with special decorations for Valentine’s Day. It is a time when love cards and gifts are sent to loved ones.

White Day, Valentine’s Day in March

In Japan, another Valentine’s Day called “White Day” or “Howaito Dē” is also celebrated on March 14, one month after Valentine’s Day. On this day, Japanese men usually reciprocate the women who gave them chocolate on Valentine’s Day, giving them some candy or gift. “White Day” is a relatively new tradition in Japan that has become popular in recent decades. The origin of “White Day” is somewhat controversial, there are several theories about its origin. One of the most accepted is that it was created by Japanese confectionery companies in the 1980s to boost sales of sweets and chocolate in March. Another theory suggests that “White Day” has its roots in the tradition of the countries of ancient Central Europe, in which lovers exchange gifts on St. George’s Day (April 23). In Japan this tradition was associated with Valentine’s Day, creating “White Day” as a way of responding to gifts that had previously been received.

Valentine’s Day and White Day, the days of lovers in Japan, are dates that offer an opportunity to show love and affection towards loved ones. In addition, the celebration of Valentine’s Day and White Day in Japan is a reflection of the culture of giving and love in the country.