Valentine’s Day has become a widely celebrated holiday around the world, but how it’s observed in Japan makes for a uniquely fascinating cultural experience. Rather than focusing solely on romantic love, the Japanese version expands the concept of Valentine’s Day Japan to celebrate all forms of affection, from romantic partners to close friends and family members.
The History of Valentine’s Day Japan
Valentine’s Day was first introduced to Japan in the 1930s by a chocolate company hoping to spark sales. While the gift-giving aspect caught on quickly, the concept of celebrating romantic love didn’t resonate with Japanese culture at the time. Instead, Japanese citizens shaped the holiday into something that aligned more closely with their values.
Rather than centering on couples, Valentine’s Day in Japan puts the focus on women giving gifts to men. On February 14th, women present chocolate gifts to all the important men in their lives – partners, friends, coworkers, bosses, etc. The gifts given on this day are known as giri-choco (obligatory chocolate) and honmei-choco (chocolate for someone you have feelings for).
A month later on March 14th, the tradition continues with White Day. On this day, men who received chocolate on Valentine’s Day return the favor by giving gifts to the women in their lives. Common White Day gifts are cookies, jewelry, white chocolate, or marshmallows.
Unique Aspects of Valentine’s Day in Japan
There are many interesting quirks surrounding the giving and receiving of Valentine’s Day chocolate in Japan. Here are some of the most notable:
Women Give Gifts to Men
Unlike in Western cultures where both men and women exchange Valentine’s gifts, Japanese women are the gift givers while men reciprocate a month later on White Day. This dynamic highlights gender roles in Japanese society.
Different Types of Chocolate
As mentioned earlier, there are two main categories of chocolate given – giri-choco and honmei-choco. Giri-choco is for bosses, male coworkers, or friends. It’s usually mass-produced and modestly priced. Honmei-choco signifies romantic interest, so women put greater care into selecting and making this chocolate. Other popular styles are tomo-choco (chocolate for friends) and familial chocolate for fathers/brothers.
Public Displays
In Japan, it’s common for women to give chocolate gifts publicly rather than privately exchanging with a boyfriend or crush. Many women bring chocolate to school or the office and present it openly to the men in their class or workplace. subway stations also get very crowded on Valentine’s Day with women heading out to deliver chocolate.
Return Gifts
Gifts given on Valentine’s day come with a sense of social obligation to reciprocate. Japanese men feel highly compelled to return the favor exactly a month later on White Day. The return gift should be of equal or greater value than the Valentine’s gift received.
Premium Chocolate
Japanese chocolate companies release special lines of premium chocolate just for Valentine’s Day. There’s tremendous competitive pressure to create the most unique, decadent flavors and elaborate packaging. Many limited edition boxes cost upwards of $100.
How Couples Spend Valentine’s Day Japan
Valentine’s Day falls on a weekday rather than weekend this year, meaning most couples celebrate during the evening after work. Here are some popular ways couples in Japan spend their Valentine’s Day together:
Romantic Dinner Dates
Booking a table for two at an elegant restaurant is a common way to celebrate. Fancier restaurants offer special prix fixe menus for couples looking to indulge. It’s also nice to pick a restaurant with a romantic ambiance such as waterside or skyline views.
Exchanging Gifts
Couples exchange gifts privately, whether store-bought or homemade. Some plan cute surprises by hiding small gifts around the house or creating scavenger hunts. Besides chocolate, popular gift ideas are flowers, jewelry, stuffed animals, or personalized couple items.
Hotels and Onsen Getaways
Hotels offer special Valentine’s Day packages that include a room beautifully decorated with roses, chocolate treats, and candlelit dinners for two. For a rejuvenating retreat, couples head to hot spring resorts known as onsens. Soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters is a relaxing way to spend quality time together.
Attending Events
There are many fun Valentine’s events from music concerts to dance parties to singles mixers. Couples can pick an event based on their interests, such as a jazz show, Latin dance night, or even speed dating if they’re looking to set up their single friends.
Romantic Walks
Going for strolls in scenic areas is another favorite low-key date. Popular spots are parks like Yoyogi Park or Shinjuku Gyoen, nighttime views along the Naka-Meguro River, and city streets like Kagurazaka’s lantern-lit cobblestone hill.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas in Japan
Let your creativity shine by tailoring a meaningful gift to your partner’s unique tastes. Here are some top Japanese Valentine’s Day gift recommendations:
Chocolate
You can’t go wrong with elegant chocolate. Pick their favorite flavors presented in a special gift box or affordable heart-shaped container. For a personal touch, try your hand at making homemade chocolate.
Flowers
In Japan, flowers carry symbolic meaning. Roses signify love while tulips represent perfect love. Japanese flowers like camellias, daffodils, and plum blossoms also make beautiful bouquets. Have them delivered with a heartfelt note.
Promise Rings
These rings featuring two interlocked bands symbolize your commitment and loyalty. They can be simple bands or something sparkly like a diamond eternity ring. Promise rings make thoughtful gifts early in relationships.
Matching Accessories
Cute his & hers accessories convey togetherness. Engraved bracelets, couples necklaces, matching watches or rings, and coordinating wallets make great subtle gifts. Scarves, hats, and mugs printed with the word “couple” are fun too.
Creative Coupons
Homemade coupon books full of cute date ideas or romantic gestures make fun DIY gifts. Coupons could be for a free massage, home-cooked dinner, picnic trip, or anything else you think your partner would enjoy.
Local Experiences
Give the gift of adventure with tickets to a local festival, museum exhibit, concert, play, cooking class, or other experience you can enjoy together. Try something neither of you has done before to make new memories.
How Friends Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples in Japan. It’s also a chance for female friends to deepen bonds and show mutual appreciation. Here’s how Japanese friends celebrate their platonic love for each other:
Exchanging Chocolate
Friends exchange chocolate or bake cookies together. Store-bought chocolate works fine, but making DIY gifts adds a more personal touch. Even simple chocolate dipped strawberries or banana slices decorated with nuts or sprinkles show thoughtfulness.
Galentine’s Parties
Groups of gal pals get together for Galentine’s Day parties full of food, games, and fun bonding activities. These could be intimate home gatherings or bigger parties at a karaoke bar, restaurant, or yoga/craft class. Some parties are just for the girls while others invite couples or additional friends.
Heartfelt Cards
Along with chocolate or other treats, friends exchange heartfelt cards conveying how much they value one another. This is a chance to share meaningful memories and inside jokes, offer encouraging messages, reminisce over fun times shared, and express genuine appreciation.
Creative Gifts
Friends who know each other well can give creative Valentine’s gifts tailored to the recipient’s hobbies and interests. Ideas include stationery, scented candles, beauty products, baked goods, sentimental photo gifts, and DIY presents. Even something as simple as a homemade friendship bracelet or mix CD can make a thoughtful gift.
Charity Fundraisers
Some gal pals use Valentine’s Day as a chance to do good together. They organize fundraisers for charities like bake sales, craft fairs, 5K run/walks, or drives to collect food donations, school supplies, etc. Combining friendship bonding and philanthropic efforts makes for a fulfilling way to celebrate.
Romantic Places to Visit on Valentine’s Day
With its dazzling city sights and tranquil natural scenery, Japan offers many romantic destinations to visit on Valentine’s Day. Here are some of the top spots for couples to celebrate their love:
Odaiba, Tokyo
This popular bayfront district sparks joy with its colorful Rainbow Bridge, giant Gundam statue, lively malls, and futuristic sights. Couples can visit Madam Tussaud’s wax museum, ride the Ferris wheel for gorgeous Tokyo Bay views, and enjoy an early evening stroll along the harbor.
Imperial Palace Gardens, Tokyo
The tranquility of this majestic garden contrasts beautifully with bustling Tokyo. meandering through the palace grounds full of Japanese architecture, moats, bridges, and cherry blossom trees makes for a serene date. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Hakone
Escape the city to this quaint hot springs town nestled in the mountains outside Tokyo. Hakone offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi along with relaxing onsen resorts, hiking trails, and ferry rides. Spend a romantic night at a traditional ryokan inn.
Kyoto
With its countless temples, shrines, zen gardens, geisha districts, and cherry blossoms, Kyoto provides a romantic glimpse into old Japan. Must-see spots for couples include Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera temple, and strolling down Hanami Koji lane.
Nara
Take a day trip from Kyoto to wander hand-in-hand among the free-roaming deer at Nara Park. Feed them special sugar-free deer cookies sold by vendors. Also visit Todai-ji, home to Japan’s largest Buddha statue housed in the world’s largest wooden building.
Romantic Ideas for Long-Distance Couples
Maintaining a romance from afar on Valentine’s Day can be challenging but not impossible. With a little creativity, you can still make your partner feel special from miles away. Here are some romantic ideas to try:
Virtual Movie Date
Thanks to streaming sites, you can easily watch a movie together from opposite sides of the world. Video chat while you hit play on the same romantic flick and enjoy a virtual movie night.
Online Cooking Class
Sharing new experiences brings couples closer despite the distance. Sign up for an online cooking class to learn new recipes together that you can replicate in your own kitchens as you cook along with the instructor over video.
Plan a Trip Together
Have something exciting to look forward to by planning your next meetup. Collaborate on the itinerary for a future vacation together. Research activities you both want to try and places you’d like to visit when reunited.
Digital Scrapbook
Make your partner smile with a DIY scrapbook of your relationship photos, inside jokes, special memories, encouraging notes, and favorite moments together. Digitally design the pages and send them the file to print and treasure.
Care Package Surprise
Mail your partner a care package crammed full of thoughtful goodies like their favorite treats, comfy items like a sweater that smells like you, mixtapes of couples songs, Polaroid selfies, and affectionate notes. Splurge on express shipping so it arrives by Valentine’s Day.
Sweet Serenade
Record yourself serenading your sweetheart by singing a romantic song. Alternatively, dedicate a favorite love song to them over a Spotify playlist. Share the audio file or playlist link so your partner can get in the Valentine’s mood with your musical gift.
Romantic Dinner Ideas for Two
Creating an intimate ambiance and enjoying delectable food together makes an indulgent, romantic Valentine’s centerpiece. Here are ideas for an unforgettable dinner for two:
Candlelit Homemade Meal
Nothing feels more special than your partner cooking an elegant meal just for you. Savor every bite by candlelight over wine and soft music. Offer to pitch in by making appetizers or dessert.
Omakase Chef’s Choice
At omakase-style restaurants, you’re treated to a series of small plates selected by the chef. It’s personalized fine dining full of surprises, perfect for celebrating love. Trust the chef to pick decadent bites and wine pairings.
Decadent Dessert Fondue
Dip fruits, cake, marshmallows, and anything your heart desires into melted chocolate or caramel for a hands-on dessert fondue indulgence. Feed each other bites for an intimate two-person affair.
At-Home Fancy Feast
Create a high-end dining experience in your own home by cooking dishes that feel elevated yet easy like pan-seared scallops, beef tenderloin, and avocado chocolate mousse. Pull out the fancy tableware and dress up.
Sushi Omakase
At the best sushi restaurants, omakase showcases the chef’s stellar skills and the day’s freshest seafood. Watching your personalized nigiri creations come to life makes for memorable culinary art.
Multi-Course Tasting Menu
Savor the chef’s creativity by indulging in a decadent tasting menu of seasonal bites. You’ll get a variety of flavors and textures with small portions allowing room for every course. It’s an unrushed feast for the senses.
Romantic Things to Do on Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day presents the perfect opportunity to indulge in intimate, romantic experiences with your significant other. Here are some dreamy ideas for making the most of your special day together:
Relaxing Couples Massage
Start the day getting pampered side-by-side with a couples massage. Choose a treatment like Thai or aromatherapy and completely surrender to the bliss of muscle melting and tension relieving. You’ll both emerge relaxed and rejuvenated.
Cozy Cabin Getaway
Escape to a secluded cabin nestled in the woods or mountains for the ultimate romantic retreat. Cook hearty meals together in the kitchen, get lost in conversation by the fireplace, and soak in each other’s undivided attention.
Champagne Picnic
Pack a basket with charcuterie, chocolate-dipped fruit, bubbly champagne, and cushy blankets and pillows. Head to a scenic spot for a picturesque picnic. Take Instagramable photos and make your champagne toast to love.
Slow Stroll Through Art Museum
Hold hands while slow-wandering through art galleries and get lost in conversation about your interpretations of the artworks. Pondering provocative art together makes for an unconventionally romantic experience.
Surprise Trip Somewhere New
Add surprise and excitement by whisking your partner away on a mystery day/weekend trip without revealing the destination. Keep the location under wraps and watch their delighted reaction when you arrive somewhere new like a cozy cabin or vibrant city.
Cooking Class Date
Get hands-on and collaborative in the kitchen by cooking up romance at a couples’ cooking class. Learn to prepare elegant cuisine together step-by-step from a professional chef and enjoy the fruits of your labor over a gourmet meal afterward.
Valentine’s Day Gifts for Different Relationship Stages
Valentine’s Day gifts should reflect where you are in your relationship. Tailor your gift selection to your unique stage together:
Newly Dating
You’re still getting to know each other, so keep gifts low commitment yet thoughtful like flowers, chocolate, mix tapes, photo frames, sentimental but not overly lavish experiences, or spa pampering sessions.
Several Months In
At several months, you’re growing closer and can give personalized presents that show you’re in tune with their interests. Creative gift ideas include cooking a special meal together, scrapbooks of your best memories so far, couples jewelry, tickets to a show, or even adopting a star named after your partner.
Long-Term Partnership
When you’ve been together for years, splurge on luxurious gifts your partner would love but not buy themselves, like luxury watches, high-end electronics, vacation getaways, hot air balloon rides, or session with a personal chef. Heartfelt custom gifts also carry more meaning the longer you’re together.
Newlyweds
For newlyweds, make your first Valentine’s as husband and wife meaningful. Exchange engraved jewelry or watches, printed canvases of your wedding day, plan a post-honeymoon couples retreat, or frame your customized vows as a special keepsake.
Married with Kids
Valentine’s takes more effort once you have kids. Schedule a babysitter and get dressed up for a rare date night out, exchange heartfelt love letters recalling your wedding day, collaboration on a DIY gift from the kids, enjoy an in-home spa night after the kids are asleep.
Romantic Ideas for Homemade Gifts
Crafting something by hand makes any present more meaningful. Here are ideas for heartfelt homemade gifts to make your partner smile:
Photo Collage
Collect your best printed photos, arrange them artfully on posterboard or a picture frame, and embellish them with ribbon, glitter, stickers, or pressed flowers. Include captions and decorations highlighting special memories.
Sentimental Calendar
Design a calendar filled with favorite photos of you two together, important dates like anniversaries marked, sweet love notes written on various days, and little drawings. Your partner can enjoy it daily.
Wine Glass Charm
Make a charming gift for wine lovers by stringing beads, crystals, charms, and dangly bits onto wire to create a one-of-a-kind wine glass charm. Add your initials or names for a personal touch.
DIY Coupon Book
Cut construction paper into coupon shapes and handwrite promises for romantic gestures like a massage, homemade dinner, picnic date, or silly themed adventures. Bind them into a cute booklet your partner can redeem.
Romantic Recipes to Make Your Valentine
Cooking delicious meals together is a wonderful way to celebrate love. Here are some romantic recipes to make your Valentine’s dinner special:
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Nothing screams romance like strawberries dipped in decadent chocolate. For added flair, sprinkle them with crushed candy, nuts, or coconut. Handfeed them to each other for an intimate dessert.
Heart-Shaped Pizza
Surprise your partner with a homemade thin-crust pizza in the playful shape of a heart. Top with their favorite toppings like pineapple and ham or goat cheese and caramelized onions.
Steak Diane
This elegant pan-seared filet mignon is sautéed tableside in a rich mushroom cream sauce for a flavorful, indulgent main course. Serve with roasted asparagus and potatoes.
Lobster Pasta
Toss al dente pappardelle pasta in a garlicky, lush sauce of melted butter, lobster meat, white wine, and fresh tomatoes for a luxurious meal. Garnish with parsley.
Chocolate Soufflés
Impress your sweetheart with decadent molten chocolate soufflés. The centers ooze into a divine chocolate lava cake-like creation when you pierce them with a spoon.
Crème Brûlée
Crack into delicately burnt caramelized sugar topping these creamy, eggy vanilla custard cups for sensational spoonfuls. Fresh berries on top complete the elegant dessert.
Romantic Things to Do at Home for Valentine’s Day
Not in the mood to battle crowds on Valentine’s Day Japan? Here are cozy, romantic ideas for celebrating at home:
Candlelit Couples Massage
Pamper each other by taking turns giving massages surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight. Use scented massage oil or lotion for an ultra-relaxing spa-like experience minus the expense.
Cook Dinner Together
Cooking together builds intimacy. Look up a fun, romantic new recipe to tackle as a team. Play your favorite music, sip wine, steal kisses, and enjoy the collaborative efforts of cooking side-by-side.
Camp In The Living Room
Build a blanket fort, bring out pillows and string up fairy lights to get cozy. Make s’mores over the stove, play games, and indulge in sweet seclusion away from screens and distractions.
Watch Your Wedding Video
Cuddle up under a blanket and stroll down memory lane by rewatching video footage from your wedding day. Relive the highlights and joy of the day you became spouses.
Create Vision Boards
Cut out magazine clippings, print photos, and make art collages representing your hopes and dreams for the future together. Crafting vision boards is a meaningful bonding exercise.
Dance Party for Two
Dim the lights, play a playlist of your favorite throwback love songs, and dance the night away as if you’re the only two people in the world. Let loose and be silly enjoying the music and movement.
Must-Visit Romantic Spots in Japan
With its picturesque landscapes and enchanting city sights, Japan offers boundless romantic destinations perfect for lovers. Here are the top romantic places to visit:
Miyajima Island
This island off Hiroshima is renowned for its iconic bright red Otorii Gate that seems to float on the sea. Walk hand-in-hand along the shrine and snap selfies with the spectacular scenery.
Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa)
Consistently ranked among Japan’s top gardens, these sprawling grounds contain ornate teahouses, stone bridges, koi ponds, and flowering trees. Wander together through this idyllic green oasis.
Kawaguchiko
Soak up jaw-dropping panoramic views of majestic Mt. Fuji reflecting on the sparkling Lake Kawaguchi. Rent a rowboat and admire the iconic volcano vista as you gently float across the calm waters.
Shirakawago Village
Overnight at a charming historic farmhouse in this quaint fairytale village in the Japanese Alps. Meander past rice paddies and soak in the village’s tranquil ambiance, lit up beautifully after dark. It’s pure romance.
Kinkakuji (Kyoto)
This Zen Buddhist temple’s top floors are completely gilded in shimmering gold leaf. The striking cypress building shining against a pine forest background creates a magical scene.
Nabana no Sato (Nagashima)
This illuminated flower park dazzles after dark with whimsical light displays, rainbow colored botanical gardens, and the world’s largest illuminated tunnel of flowers. The fantasy-like wonderland is incredibly photogenic.
Romantic Things to Do in Tokyo
As one of the world’s most vibrant, exciting cities, Tokyo presents ample opportunities for romantic adventures. Here are top romantic activities for couples:
Sumida River Cruise
Enjoy Tokyo’s glittering cityscape on an evening riverboat cruise. Watch the neon-lit buildings glow as you float peacefully down the river and under brightly-lit bridges.
Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park
Escape the city buzz amidst serene woods and Shinto shrine grounds. Walk hand-in-hand along tree-lined paths in Yoyogi Park to this historic spiritual site with a romantic ambiance.
Helicopter Ride Over Tokyo
Get your hearts racing on a thrilling helicopter ride high above the sprawling metropolis. Embrace your partner tightly as you soak up the enormous scale of Tokyo from overhead.
Tea Ceremony
Learn about this quintessential Japanese tradition together at a tea house in Asakusa. The tranquil ritual is intricately choreographed to represent harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.
Omakase Sushi
At a 10-seat sushi bar, watch the chef create edible art full of seasonal seafood. Trying the best sushi in Tokyo is an unforgettable experience best shared.
Tokyo Tower
Enjoy panoramic city views and champagne toasts at the top of this iconic tower. Gaze out from the observation deck together or ascend further to dine at the luxe French restaurant.
5 Romantic Things to Do in Kyoto
With its bamboo forests, ancient temples, geisha districts, and tranquil zen gardens, Kyoto provides an enchanting backdrop for romance. Here are top romantic activities:
Bamboo Forest Stroll
Arashiyama’s dense bamboo groves create a magical green haven. The sunlight filtering through tall stalks sets a dreamy mood.
Kimono Photo Shoot
Get dressed up in kimonos and strike poses together at scenic spots like Kiyomizu-dera or Fushimi Inari Shrine. It’s an artistic memento of your love in Kyoto.
Nishiki Market Food Tour
Indulge in a food-focused stroll down Nishiki Market trying samples of Japanese delicacies like skewers, fresh sashimi, mochi, and sake as you explore the stalls.
Watch the Sunset at Kiyomizu-dera
Climb the hillside wooden temple and take in spectacular views illuminated at sunset. Sit close together overlooking the city below as day softens into night.
Maiko Show with Dinner
Marvel at elegant geisha dances while enjoying a multicourse Kaiseki dinner. Watching the artistic performances in an intimate theater creates romance.
Romantic Destinations Outside Tokyo & Kyoto
Beyond Japan’s famous big cities are countless underrated destinations ideal for romance. Here are some top recommendations:
Naoshima Art Island
Sometimes called Japan’s Art Island, this island in the Seto Inland Sea is an open-air contemporary art paradise. Wander between art museums and installations hand-in-hand.
Alpine Route (Nagano)
Drive together along this scenic route through the mountains. With glistening lakes, wild monkeys, waterfalls, ropeways, and hot springs, adventure awaits at every turn.
Sand Museum (Tottori)
Be awestruck by the incredible sand sculptures at this beachside museum. The incredible lifelike structures tower against the sea. Come at sunset for bonus romantic lighting.
Historic Shirakawago Village
Overnight in a traditional thatched roof farmhouse in this fairy tale village. Meander the quiet lanes and soak in the atmospheric tranquility of this rural region.
Taketomi Island Beach (Okinawa)
Escape to Okinawa’s coral island with star-shaped white sands for tropical romance. Snorkel bright reefs together and watch unforgettable fiery sunsets by the beach.
5 Romantic Onsen Experiences in Japan
With picturesque settings, secluded privacy, and therapeutic mineral waters, Japanese hot springs called “onsens” provide a serene ambiance for romance. Here are 5 top onsen experiences for couples:
Open-Air Hot Springs (Arima Onsen)
Soak in steaming waters surrounded by mountains in Hyogo’s open-air springs reputed for their beautifying and healing minerals. Enjoy ultimate relaxation.
Private Villas With Outdoor Hot Springs (Hakone Yuryo)
Book a villa with your own open-air mineral bath on a balcony overlooking forested Hakone mountains for a luxurious, secluded getaway.
Moon-Viewing Onsen (Togura Kamiyamada Onsen)
This onsen town in Nagano has an old-fashioned mixed gender bath perfect for gazing up at the moon together as you soak in tranquil waters.
Romantic Ryokan Stay (Aoni Onsen)
Stay in traditional ryokan inn rooms at this hot spring in Nagano renowned for its luminous waters. Enjoy soothing soaks and multi-course dinners.
Oceanside Onsen (Ibusuki Onsen)
Access the beachside open-air hot springs in Kyushu’s southernmost city. Enjoy scenic seaside soaks and stunning sunrises together.
Romantic Things to Do in Osaka
Though known for its vibrant food scene, Osaka also provides plenty for couples to do. Here are top romantic activities in this charming city:
Ferris Wheel at Tempozan Harbor Village
Take a spin on the towering Ferris wheel by the water for panoramic views of the city as you cuddle close. Time it around sunset for bonus romantic lighting.
Cruise the Okawa River
See Osaka’s sights drift by aboard a sightseeing boat floating along the Okawa River under picturesque bridges. Cuddle close on the open upper deck.
Osaka Castle and Park
Explore this historic castle hand-in-hand and marvel at panoramic city views from the top floor observatory. Wander the sprawling grounds after in a beautiful zen garden.
Neon Nights in Dotonbori
Feel the electric energy strolling through Osaka’s neon-lit restaurant district. Photograph the iconic Glico running man sign before eating your way through street food stalls.
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
Shop side-by-side down this 2.6 km covered arcade dotted with temples. Follow up retail therapy with crepes and coffee in a hidden cafe within the retro charm of the historic shopping street.
Romantic Scenic Train Rides in Japan
Japan’s extensive rail network reaches breathtaking natural landscapes best admired together from a train window. Here are the most scenic romantic train routes:
Sagano Scenic Railway (Kyoto)
This short vintage train meanders through bamboo forests and past rapids along the Hozu River gorge. The woodsy views set a dreamy mood.
Kurobe Gorge Railway (Toyama)
Gasps guaranteed aboard this sightseeing train route through Japan’s steepest gorge. Marvel at looming cliffs, hot springs, and river vistas as you twist through the narrow walls.
Shinkansen Along the Coast (Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate)
Book the first row seats on a bullet train heading north from Tokyo. The panoramic Pacific coastline views for hours on end feel incredible.
Oigawa Railway (Shizuoka)
One of Japan’s most picturesque train journeys passes through breathtaking alpine scenery. See mountains, lakes, and cascading waterfalls made for romantic memories.
Aso Boy! (Kumamoto)
Cuddle close while riding in an open-air wagon on this retro coal train through rolling grassy hills.
Romantic Things to Do in Sapporo
While renowned for its snow festivals and skiing, there are many romantic experiences to enjoy in Sapporo beyond winter. Here are top couples activities in Hokkaido’s capital:
Odori Park
Stroll under cherry blossoms through Sapporo’s vibrant central park. See performances at the musical fountain and beautiful flower gardens.
Historical Village
Step back in time wandering through this open-air museum with over 60 historical buildings relocated to recreate a 19th century town. Costumed reenactors roam the streets.
Beer Museum
Learn how Sapporo’s iconic beer is made on an audio tour of the brewing facilities before tasting samples freshly made on site. Cheers to romance!
Chocolate Factory
Satisfy sweet cravings by creating customized chocolate bars at the Shiroi Koibito Factory. The aroma of decadent molten chocolate alone sparks joy.
Ropeway Ride
Sweep your sweetheart off their feet on the scenic ropeway ride up to Mount Moiwa for panoramic city views from the observation deck.
Top 5 Places to Propose in Japan
With its stunning landscapes, romantic ambiance, and historic sites, Japan offers many iconic spots to pop the question. Here are 5 proposal destinations to consider:
Bamboo Forest (Kyoto)
propose amid mysterious, verdant bamboo stalks surrounding towering temples in magical Arashiyama. It’s off-the-beaten-path for privacy.
Odaiba Beach (Tokyo)
Against the glittering Tokyo cityscape, ask for their hand at this scenic manmade beach. Time it at sunset for unforgettable lighting.
Mt Fuji Viewpoint
On clear days, majestic Mt Fuji makes a picturesque backdrop. Hike to a Fuji viewpoint like Mt Takao or Lake Kawaguchiko and propose under Japan’s iconic landmark.
Gardens (Kenrokuen, Korakuen)
Elaborate gardens like Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen or Okayama’s Korakuen make tranquil, colorful settings surrounded by blossoming trees, ponds and ornate teahouses.
Hot Air Balloon
Propose miles above the ground aboard a romantic hot air balloon ride. Float above iconic scenery like Hiroshima’s floating torii gate or Napa Valley’s vineyards for once-in-a-lifetime photos.
FAQs
When is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Japan?
Valentine’s Day in Japan falls on February 14th, the same day it’s celebrated in Western countries. However, the gift-giving continues a month later on March 14th with White Day.
What do Japanese women give men on Valentine’s Day?
In Japan, women give gifts of chocolate to all the important men in their lives on Valentine’s Day – boyfriends, husbands, friends, coworkers, bosses. The gifts given are called giri-chocolates (obligatory) and honmei-chocolates (for someone you have romantic feelings for).
How is Valentine’s Day celebrated in schools and offices?
It’s tradition for Japanese schoolgirls and female office workers to buy and distribute chocolate to all their male classmates and colleagues on Valentine’s Day. They hand out the chocolate gifts publicly rather than secretly or anonymously.
What do men give women on White Day?
White Day on March 14th is the counterpart to Valentine’s Day where men reciprocate and give gifts to women. Gifts are usually white chocolate, cookies, jewelry or other white-colored gifts. The value should match or exceed the Valentine’s gift received.
What do couples do to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Couples celebrate much like in Western culture by exchanging gifts, going on romantic dates, enjoying fancy meals, and spending quality time together. Japanese chocolate companies also release special lines of premium chocolate just for Valentine’s Day.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day Japan holds unique significance as a chance to express affection to the important people in your life, beyond just romantic partners. Discover the perfect balance of romance and affordability with our collection of the cheapest Valentine’s Day baskets for her, a thoughtful gesture that challenges traditional gender roles, where women initiate the celebration by presenting chocolate gifts to male coworkers, friends, and partners, setting the stage for reciprocal expressions of love on White Day. The different types of chocolate given hold meaning, with “giri-choco” being obligatory and “honmei-choco”.
