Valentine's Day in Japan isn't the way we picture it in the West. It is the Women who give chocolate, especially "giri choko" (obligation chocolate) to men. In addition to obligation chocolate, however, she can also give chocolate to others, most particularly to a man she is sweet on.
But there is a day that does resemble the Western idea of Valentine’s Day, and it takes place a month later. White Day, on March 14, is the day where most resembles the Western Valentine's Day, as this is the day that men give gifts back to women. Men who received chocolate on Valentine's Day indicate interest in the woman by giving her something white, which is usually a Marshmallow-based candy. If a “sweetheart” man is not interested, however, he does not usually give a return gift.
Recently, there are also “White Day goods” being promoted in Japan. For couples, rather than giving chocolates or sweets, the man may choose to purchase a White Day present, like an accessory, for his girlfriend.
Most men who received giri-choko, however, usually do reciprocate on White Day. These men can share candies, chocolates, or other sweets they have either bought (or baked) with colleagues, both male and female. Since giri-choko does not necessarily have to be chocolates, okashi (confectionery) is also welcomed. Even though it's not chocolate, nor is it a return gift just for giri-choco received on Valentine’s Day, it also counts. And it is something that helps to build closer relationships by sharing, and this speaks volumes to priorities in Japan!
White Day in Japan
