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Japan is one of the few countries in the world that celebrates Valentine’s Day with equal fervour not once, but twice. While February 14 is when women give chocolates to men they admire, March 14, known as White Day, is when men have the opportunity to return the favour. But before you embark on a romantic expedition of your own, let’s explore Valentine’s Day in Japan together.

History of Valentine’s Day in Japan

Believed to have been introduced to Japan from the West by the confectionery and retail industries in the mid-1950s, Valentine’s Day has since evolved into a holiday with its unique Japanese customs and traditions. From women being the primary gift-givers to the emergence of distinct Japanese practices, the country’s Valentine’s Day is both different and fascinating.

From “giri choco” given to male colleagues and “tomo choco” given to male friends to “honmei chocolates” exchanged with significant others to confess romantic feelings, Valentine’s Day in Japan is a day dedicated to expressing affection and challenging traditional gender roles.

Best places to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Japan

The Sagano romantic train

The JR Sagano Line offers a picturesque journey aboard the Sagano Scenic Railway in Kyoto. This 17-minute ride on board an old-fashioned train weaves its way across scenic landscapes, including lush forests and lofty mountains, making it the perfect setting to enjoy Valentine’s Day celebrations in Japan.

A ryokan in Asakusa

A ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn often featuring a private outdoor bath, offers a serene setting for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Asakusa is home to some of the best ryokans where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and lush forests while enjoying a romantic warm bath in the privacy of their cottages.

Hikes

Japan offers stunning views on short hikes, making it an ideal destination for adventurous couples. Embark on a one-day short hike to destinations like Mount Takao and Koburi Pass near Tokyo for a distraction-free Valentine’s Day spent in Japan’s nature.

Love shrines

For a more spiritual Valentine’s Day experience in Japan, consider visiting a love shrine with your special someone. There are several such shrines across Japan, such as the Hikawa Shrine in Saitama and the Imado Shrine in Tokyo, where couples can receive good luck charms or tie knots to strengthen their bond. Couples also pick up paper fortunes, known as Omikuji, for future predictions.

An ikebana class

Experience the art of flower arranging, known as ikebana in Japanese, with your significant other on Valentine’s Day. Joining an ikebana class allows couples to spend a stress-free day surrounded by vibrant blooms from around the world, embracing the positive energy of nature.

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Natural hot springs

Indulge in a leisurely soak at a natural hot spring with your loved one for a truly romantic Valentine’s Day experience in Japan. Numerous spas offer couples the chance to enjoy the healing properties of hot springs, where water bubbles up from over 1500 metres underground, promoting relaxation and wellness.

A romantic cruise

End your Valentine’s Day celebrations with a luxurious cruise offering gourmet meals, cultural performances, and scenic views of Tokyo, Kobe, and Yokohama. Afternoon or evening cruises on luxury yachts provide a memorable way to conclude the day.

Winter illuminations

Experience the enchanting winter illuminations in Tokyo, where entire streets are adorned with bright displays of fairy lights in various shapes, colours, and designs. A pre- or post-dinner walk amidst the illuminations creates a romantic ambience, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

Picnic under the plum blossoms

For an outdoor Valentine’s Day date in Japan, consider a picnic under the fragrant plum blossoms. Local parks and hilly orchards offer a charming backdrop filled with light-pink five-petaled beauties. Pick up a couple of bento boxes and a blanket, and find the perfect spot to savour the moment together.

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Best Valentine’s Day food in Japan

Valentine’s Day treats

Indulge in limited-edition luxury chocolates and other sweet treats from renowned brands such as Lindt, GODIVA, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, and KitKat. Expect heart-shaped centre-filled treats adorned with sweet messages engraved on them, adding a touch of romance to your celebrations.

Dinner date

Elevate your Valentine’s Day with a memorable dinner at elegant, Michelin-starred, and award-winning restaurants. Restaurants like Sézanne at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo or The Apollo at Tokyu Plaza Ginza are sure to impress your date, offering some of the finest dining experiences in Japan.

Sake

Embark on sake-tasting tours to explore the diverse flavour profiles and varieties of sake from across the country. Visit local breweries near Tokyo and Kyoto, where knowledgeable sommeliers will guide you through not only the beverages but also recommend ideal food pairings for a complete sensory experience.

All-you-can-eat fruits

Add a fun twist to your dinner date by embarking on an all-you-can-eat fruit-picking expedition with your significant other. Depending on the season, some farms offer strawberry or apple-picking activities on or around Valentine’s Day. Spend quality time together picking and indulging in ripe fruits straight from the vine, dunking them in the provided chocolate sauce or condensed milk for an extra touch of sweetness.

Valentine’s Day 2024 events in Japan

Attend the Valentine’s Day Fair at Roppongi Hills

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Roppongi Hills, a lively neighbourhood in Tokyo, during its Valentine’s Day chocolate fair on February 14. With over 35 speciality chocolate stores participating, you can expect an impressive line-up of special chocolates and sweets perfect for gifting.

Visit Tokyo Solamachi

Kickstart your Valentine’s Day with a visit to Tokyo Solamachi, a multilevel retail complex hosting a special chocolate fair from January 26 to February 14, 2024. Explore limited editions of various chocolates, witness the inauguration of new stores, and indulge in a unique showcase of chocolates and non-chocolate sweets at two special venues.

Go ice-skating

Embrace romance and athleticism with ice skating at Toshimaen outdoor rink in Tokyo, illuminated in neon shades for Valentine’s Day. Other options include the Edogawa Sportsland Rink, the Tokyo Midtown Rink, and the Yokohama Akarenga Rink, where you can twirl and slide with your beloved by your side.

Climb Tokyo Tower

Join the Love Step Up event at Tokyo Tower, where couples can ascend the stairs to the first observation deck instead of taking the elevator. Enjoy a romantic stroll together and take in panoramic views of the city from the viewing area.

(Feature image credit: Sora Sagano/Unsplash)

Related: Fukushima Is Japan’s Capital Of Sake — Here Are The Best Breweries To Visit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-Are there differences in how Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Japan compared to other countries?
In Japan, Valentine’s Day differs as women primarily give gifts, and men reciprocate on White Day, March 14.

-What happens if someone receives chocolate on Valentine’s Day in Japan?
Men who receive chocolates on Valentine’s Day in Japan typically reciprocate threefold on White Day or with items of less value, indicating their level of interest.

-Can foreigners participate in Valentine’s Day traditions in Japan?
Yes, foreigners are welcome to participate in Valentine’s Day traditions in Japan.

-Are there any customs or traditions associated with Valentine’s Day in Japan?
Gifting chocolates is a longstanding tradition associated with Valentine’s Day in Japan.

-Do men reciprocate on Valentine’s Day in Japan?
Traditionally, men reciprocate on White Day (March 14) in Japan, not on Valentine’s Day.

-Who typically gives chocolates on Valentine’s Day in Japan?
Women are expected to give chocolates on Valentine’s Day in Japan.

-What is “giri choco” and “honmei choco”?
“Giri choco” is obligatory chocolate given to male colleagues and friends, while “honmei choco” is reserved for romantic partners.

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