◼️Valentine's Day in Japan
Its history dates back primarily to the late 20th century.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Japanese chocolate manufacturers launched campaigns to promote the custom of giving chocolate on Valentine's Day. This led to Valentine's Day becoming a common event in Japan.
While in the West men usually give gifts to women on Valentine's Day, Japan developed its own style of women giving chocolates to men. This became a major event, spread by the efforts of chocolate manufacturers to promote and distribute their products.
◼️Types about Valentine's Day Chocolates in Japan
In Japan, the chocolate given on Valentine's Day is called "Valentine's Day chocolate," and the name varies depending on the relationship with the recipient.
- Giri chocolate: Giri chocolate is a casual gift for friends and colleagues. It's often given on Valentine's Day to express appreciation rather than romantic feelings. The term Giri (義理) can be translated into English as "social obligation" or "moral duty based on relationships". It refers to the sense of responsibility or loyalty based on social and moral expectations in relationships.
- Hommei choco: Hommei choco is a gift that expresses one's true feelings for a specific person. The term Hommei (本命) can be translated into English as "main contender" or "primary choice," referring to a person or goal that is given special attention or priority.
- Self-rewarding chocolate: A gift to yourself to refresh yourself. It involves treating yourself as a form of acknowledgement and celebration for a job well done.
Hommei chocolates are handmade chocolates!
Handmade chocolates show the feeling and ingenuity that went into the gift, and are a means of expressing one's true love's feelings.
◼️The Establishment of White Day
As a uniquely Japanese culture, a day for men to give gifts to women in return was established on March 14, about a month after Valentine's Day, known as White Day. White Day was also a commercial success, and along with Valentine's Day, it became a major event for expressing affection.
White Day Gifts
1) White Chocolate
On White Day, white chocolate is often chosen as a gift in return for the chocolate given on Valentine's Day. White chocolate is a refreshing alternative to the dark or milk chocolates usually given on Valentine's Day.
2) Cookies and CakesStyle cookies and cakes are also popular White Day gifts; these desserts are different from the chocolates you receive on Valentine's Day and are a great way to show your appreciation.
3) Bouquets and flowers: Bouquets and flowers are also often chosen as White Day gifts. Flowers are especially appreciated as a gift for women and are a nice way to express gratitude.
4) And in some cases, luxury accessories and jewelry are also considered (or requested) as White Day gifts, especially for those with whom you have a close relationship.