White Day in Japan: February 14 is celebrated as Valentine’s Day every year throughout the world. Classically, roses and gifts are exchanged among lovers, while some may take it to the next level by proposing.
However, some countries have different traditions related to the day of Love. While Spain celebrates Valentine’s Day twice, Japan celebrates in two halves.
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How Is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Japan?
On February 14th, Japan celebrates Valentine’s Day but in a different way.
Only women give chocolates to every man in their lives. Different chocolates hold different values. For good friends, family members, or colleagues, any normal chocolate would work. These chocolates are called Giri-choco. As for the men they love, women give Honmei-choco, which are often hand-made chocolates.
In return, men gift multiple things, including chocolates, to women, but a month later, on March 14th. Guess what this day in March is called. It’s called the White Day!
Is Valentine’s Day in Japan Only For Lovers?
No, women gift chocolates to every male in their circle, including family members, friends, and colleagues.
What is White Day in Japan?
White Day is the day when men gift back to women various sweet things like chocolates, roses, jewelry, and more. It is celebrated one month after Valentine’s Day, on 14 March every year.
Is White Day in Japan Only for Lovers?
Yes, men only return gifts to the woman they love. They can return gifts to other girls who gifted them chocolates on Valentine’s Day even if they don’t like the girl, but no other woman.
White Day in Japan: Different Chocolates, Different Meanings
In the past, marshmallows were the most common chocolates that were given to women. However, now the meaning of marshmallows and other sweets has changed.
Marshmallows now signify a lack of interest and, thus, rejection.
Cookies signify good friendship or platonic love but nothing more.
Macarons signify special friendship.
Premium white chocolates and Hard Candies signify romantic love.
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