In Japan, Christmas and Valentine’s Day hold special significance for lovers. These events reflect Japan’s unique cultural background, and many couples look forward to spending special time together on those days. This article details the distinctive dating styles and customs of each event, as well as the background behind them.
Christmas in Japan is Synonymous with Romantic Dating
In Japan, Christmas is perceived as a day for lovers to share special moments rather than spending time with family. While in Europe and the U.S. it is more commonly spent with family, in Japan it has become established as “lovers’ day” and the streets are crowded with couples.
Romantic dinners are especially popular on Christmas dates. Enjoying a Christmas-only course menu at a fine restaurant or a fashionable café is the standard, and reservations are usually required. Many couples also visit illumination spots, a winter tradition, and Roppongi Hills and Yebisu Garden Place are particularly popular. In addition, some couples choose to stay at a luxury hotel and enjoy a more romantic evening with champagne and special decorations.
It is said that this lover-centered way of spending Christmas has taken root largely due to the commercial influence of major companies advertising the event as “an event for lovers” since the 1970s.
Valentine’s Day with its culture of confession of love and handmade chocolates
Valentine’s Day is an event that has evolved uniquely in Japan, and is particularly notable for its culture of women giving chocolate to men. It is common to give handmade chocolates, rather than store-bought ones, to a true love, and this is meant to express special feelings. On the other hand, the custom of giving “giri-choko” to co-workers and bosses as a token of gratitude and “tomochoko” to friends of the same sex as a casual gift is also spreading.
In addition to giving chocolate, couples often enjoy dinner, a movie, or a walk on Valentine’s Day. It is common to share a relaxing time through dating.
The origin of Japan’s Valentine’s Day culture dates back to a campaign by a confectionery manufacturer in the 1950s. Initially, the format was for men and women to give each other chocolate. Gradually, however, the style changed to one-way gift-giving from women to men, reflecting the Japanese unique sense of deep values.
Impact of Events on Couples
Christmas and Valentine’s Day are important occasions for couples to deepen their relationship. The exuberance of the special day strengthens the bond between the couple, and the process of preparation itself is an element of mutual cooperation and anticipation. The fact that the memories will be preserved in the future through photos and gifts is also attractive.
On the other hand, these events can also create pressure. It is important to consult with each other to find the right balance, especially if the ideals are too high, as the preparation and costs can be burdensome.
Conclusion
Christmas and Valentine’s Day have special significance for Japanese lovers. Each event has evolved in its own way due to cultural backgrounds and commercial influences, but what they have in common is that they are used as opportunities for couples to deepen their relationship. Enjoying these events will enhance their relationship and leave them with good memories for the future. We hope that people from overseas will experience this uniquely Japanese romantic custom.
