Return the Favor

One month after Valentine’s Day, Japan celebrates White Day on March 14th, a holiday where the roles are delightfully reversed! Originating in the late 1970s, this day is not specifically to celebrate women but rather for men to return the affection they received on Valentine’s Day.

If a man receives chocolates in February, he’s expected to step up his game by giving back gifts that are often white—like white chocolate, marshmallows, or even jewelry. The rule of thumb? The return gift should be about two to three times the value of what they received. It’s a playful exchange that adds an extra layer of fun to romantic pursuits in Japan!