Reposting something I did a couple of years ago. You know, just for the heck of it, since V-day is around the corner and all. 😉 It’s interesting how Japan has a different way of celebrating the day of hearts. Not all countries have something unique like this. Hmm, just thinking out loud…why don’t I give out chocolates this year? 🙂
Valentine’s Day is another big commercial event in Japan. Confectioneries rake in big bucks on sales of chocolates at this time of the year. For Valentine’s, women buy chocolates to give to the men in their lives: friends, colleagues, classmates. These chocolates are called ‘giri choco’ or obligatory chocolates. ‘Giri’ or ‘obligation’ is a very Japanese concept. If someone does good to you, you are obliged to return the favor. Giri chocolate is for friendship and/or gratitude. Also, many women make chocolates to give to their significant other. These kinds of chocolates are called ‘honmei choco’ (For March 14, men are expected to reciprocate).
Now, in a recent significant trend, the concept of buying ‘tomo choco’ (or ‘friend chocolate’) has been observed in the V-day spending patterns of women. Most of them say they buy chocolates for their girlfriends instead of the men in their lives. Looking good for the women, huh? ^_^
Do you plan to give chocolates this year? 😀
