How Japan Celebrates Valentine’s

bychampdigo

416 followers

Updated 3 years ago

Hello everyone, Valentines Day is coming in fast, and I wanted to share with you, How Valentines Day is Celebrated in Japan.

This is the First Part, on my Two Part Post about Valentines in Japan.

Valentines in Japan

Women buy or make Chocolates, Pastries, and other gifts, then on Valentines Day, these gifts are then given to their male friends, co-workers, lovers, etc. Some people make these gifts from scratch, but most just buy them from the store or online.

Most of the chocolate given is bought, as it is seen to be more convinient and efficient. Chocolates prices can vary depending on the type, brand, or packaging, but most of them are not expensive, most usually cost between $1 to $15, and the average budget is around $50.

Men don't give gifts to Women on Valentines, thats reserved for White Day.

Types of Chocolate

Each chocolate is called differently depending on who it is for.

Giri Choco = This is the most common type of chocolate, but has been falling in popularity recently due to the feeling of pressure and stress to give them out. This type is usually given to male friends, co-workers, family members, etc as a debt of gratitude.

Honmei Choco = Translates as "True Feeling Chocolate", Its Mostly Handmade and given to a significant other, like a husband, or a boyfriend.

Jibun Choco = Also Called "Self Chocolate", You don't give this away, its a present you buy or make for yourself.

Tomo Choco = "Tomo" is short for "Tomodachi", which means friend. This is usually gifted between female friends but can be given to male friends as well.

March 14th is White Day

As for men, their turn is on March 14th called White Day. White Day, also known as Reply Day, began in the 1970s as a campaign and is now celebrated annually.

Usually you only buy or make gifts for the women who gave you gifts on Valentines, but some people don't follow that and give gifts to anyone they like, adore, or love.

White Day gifts are expected to be 2 to 3 times more expensive than the gifts you have received, and it can get costly, but an expensive gift is not required, its just preferred.

Not Giving White Day gifts back is unacceptable, If you received a gift on Valentines, then you have to give a White Day gift back.

Conclusion

Valentines Day, and White Day are some of the most stressful and expensive holidays in Japan, but it is also a nice day to give gifts and celebrate with people you care about.

In my Next Post, I'll be sharing more information on why these Holidays are declining in popularity.

I hope you have a Great Day, and Enjoy Valentines this year. :)

Thank you for reading.

How do you celebrate Valentine's?

PART 2: https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/champdigo/blog/why-valentine...