Valentine’s Day: Best Places in Japan!
Thuy Fang
In Japan, couples and friends love to hang out on Valentine’s Day! Popular places like Tokyo’s shopping districts, romantic restaurants, and amusement parks are busy with people enjoying the special day. Let’s explore Japan’s most cherished dating spots that couples love to visit on this lovely occasion!
How do people celebrate Valentine’s Day in Japan?
In Japan, February 14th is all about chocolate! Unlike in other countries, it’s the girls who give chocolates to the boys! Shops overflow with adorably wrapped chocolates, from fancy ones made by famous chocolatiers to simple, sweet, handmade treats. Many girls love making their chocolates, and stores sell unique ingredients for this time of year.
There are different types of chocolates for different people! If a girl likes someone a lot, she gives them honmei choco (true love chocolate). It’s usually handmade or super fancy to show how special the person is!
But there’s also giri choco (obligation chocolate), given to male friends, classmates, or even bosses as a polite gesture. And don’t forget tomo choco (friend chocolate)! Girls also give chocolates to their best friends to celebrate their friendship. Here are some common places where Japanese people often give chocolates to their loved ones!
Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo DisneySea becomes extra magical on Valentine’s Day! One of the best spots to visit is Valentina’s Sweets, a dreamy candy shop where every day feels like Valentine’s Day. The walls are covered in cute paintings of Disney lovebirds, and even tiny heart-shaped details are hidden all over the store!
Inside, you’ll find cookies, chocolates, and colorful candies that make the perfect Valentine’s gift. Even Huey, Dewey, and Louie appear as little Cupids, fluttering above to spread love and joy!
For a truly romantic adventure, you can hop on the Venetian Gondolas and glide through the beautiful canals of the Mediterranean Harbor. The friendly gondoliers will sing and guide you through the stunning scenery.
If you love fairy tales, you can also experience Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, where you’ll take a dreamy boat ride like in Tangled. Floating lanterns glow as you relive Rapunzel’s “most magical night” with Flynn Rider.
Inokashira Park
Did you know there’s a funny superstition about Inokashira Park in Kichijoji? People say that couples who ride the swan boats together might break up! But don’t worry – Inokashira Park is still one of the dreamiest places for a Valentine’s Day date. Many couples love to take a peaceful walk, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking nature.
In addition, the park has lovely trails, cute little bridges, and even bike paths, so you can rent a bike and explore together. The gentle ripples on the lake, the soft rustling of trees, and the charming scenery make it feel like a fairy tale! This park is extra special for Ghibli fans because it’s home to the Ghibli Museum! This enchanting museum contains exhibits of Studio Ghibli’s incredible artwork and films.
Are you looking for great snacks while visiting beautiful places during Valentine’s Day? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Japanese treats directly from Japan!
Hakone
Just a quick trip from Tokyo, this charming town is known for its stunning views of Mt. Fuji, relaxing hot springs, and picturesque Lake Ashi. A truly enchanting place is the Hakone Shrine, where couples can walk under the bright red torii gate standing by the lake.
People believe this shrine brings good luck, happiness, and love! Some visitors even take a sip from the sacred water fountain, which is said to bring love and good fortune!
Moreover, couples can ride the Hakone Ropeway, soaring above steaming volcanoes and colorful forests. Art lovers will adore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where sculptures stand beautifully among nature.
The Venetian Glass Museum also sparkles with dazzling glass art in an alluring European-style villa. And don’t forget the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise! These pirate ship replicas sail across Lake Ashi, offering fantastic views of the mountains.
Minato Mirai
Minato Mirai is a lively area in Yokohama with lots of fun things to do and see, especially during the romantic season. You can take a gentle stroll along the bay while enjoying the soft glow of the lights reflecting off the water. Don’t miss the Yokohama Marine Tower, where special candlelights and a mesmerizing glow make the evening extra enchanting.
It’s also famous for its Cosmo World amusement park, which provides a mix of exciting rides and cozy spots. Cosmo World is known for its giant Ferris wheel, the Cosmo Clock 21, which gives you a panoramic view of the city from above. After dark, it lights up in a brilliant display called the “Giant Ferris Wheel Light Art,” making it an ideal location for romantic photos!
Why are these locations perfect for Valentine’s Day?
Valentine’s Day is a meaningful time to cherish love, and each location in Japan offers a unique way to create beautiful memories. Whether it’s the fairytale atmosphere of Tokyo DisneySea, the peaceful charm of Inokashira Park, or the sparkling night views of Minato Mirai, there’s an excellent destination for every couple.
These settings show how romance can be found in small details, from simple heart-shaped decorations to spectacular views. Which of these places would you love to visit on Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments!
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