The land of the rising sun seems to be obsessed with western culture, which is very astounding considering the beautiful traditions which the Japanese people managed to maintain to this day. Nevertheless, Valentine’s Day, a stereotypically western tradition, is one of the most anticipated holidays in Japan. We can even go a step further and say that the Japanese take the day of love more seriously than we do. It seems like they took the concept of Valentine ’s Day and brought it to a completely new level, which, from my point of view, just makes this extraordinary island nation even more likable.
In Japan, you celebrate Valentine ’s Day a little bit differently. On 14 February, the women present gifts to men. But instead of only giving their boyfriend or husband chocolates, self-made meals and other little presents, Japanese women will also make their class comrades, colleagues and male friends small presents to show their appreciation towards them. Most of the time, the gift consists of self-made chocolates and pralines. However, the smaller chocolate gifts are usually given to friends, while the spouse receives a more flamoboyant and lavish chocolaty creation.
One month later, on White Day, it’s the men’s turn to return the favor by gifting the women with all kinds of sweets like chocolate or marshmallows.
By the way, the sweet customs were established by a smart confectioner in the 70s who wanted to draw financial benefit from it, while still making everyone happy.
