White Day

Throughout the world, Valentine’s Day is practiced similarly with the giving of gifts (in chocolate or flower form) to those whose respect, admiration, or love we desire – both men and women. In some countries, though, there is a tradition that only women give gifts on Valentine’s Day.  Unfair, you say?  Not quite…

There is a reason for this oddity.  Those same countries celebrate White Day on March 14th.  White Day is when women are the recipients with an expectation that gifts bestowed upon them are thrice the value of that she gave to the man.

We have Japan to thank for this day. However, many other countries (Korea and China, for example) also celebrate White Day today. 

In 1978 the Japanese National Confection Industry Association promoted the idea of an “answer day” for Valentine’s Day.  It was tradition that only women would give gifts of chocolate on Valentine’s Day and so they decided that there needed to be a day where men showed their appreciation by returning it. 

You can celebrate White Day too!

If you’ve received a gift from someone on Valentine’s Day, return the favor on White Day.  You can also research the details of this tradition and raise awareness of it in your own community. It’s not just a Japanese tradition, but it’s practiced in South Korea, Vietnam, and China.  Study the nuances of this holiday and tell people all about it so others can learn more about these cultures.

Why not spend this date to learn a bit more about Japanese culture and tradition. Why not learn some romantic phrases in Japanese ? 

Start is by learning how to say “I love you” romantically – Aishiteru or 愛してる

“I feel safe when I’m with you” – Issho ni Iru to Hotto suru/Anshin Suru. 一緒にいるとほっとする/安心する

“Let’s go on a date/Let’s hang out” – De-to ni Ikou!/Asobi ni Ikou! デートに行こう！/遊びに行こう

Here’s a bit more information to help you learn more about White Day:

Forbes Magazine

Matcha

Diffen

BBC Worklife

Korean Class 101