In Japan, Valentine’s Day is celebrated differently than the way we celebrate here in the United States. It is on this day that women will traditionally give chocolate to many of the people in their lives. Much of this is giri choco, or obligatory chocolate, which is given to their superiors at work and many of the non-romantic men they see every day. There is also tomo choco, chocolates given to female friends. The most important, however, is honmei choco, special chocolates for the special man in the woman’s life.

The men’s turn to return the favor comes on March 14th, a day designated as “White Day”. Men buy slightly more expensive, white boxes of chocolate for the women in their lives.

If you’re looking for something to do this Valentine’s Day, consider a dinner of sushi at our Japanese restaurant in Seattle!