Love month in Asia is a celebration marked by diverse and unique traditions, with each country adding its own cultural touch to the global expression of love
February 14th is observed uniquely across Asia, with each country infusing its own cultural nuances into the expression of love. While the core theme of love and connection remains universal an, the unique practices—from sweet gestures to symbolic rituals—reflect the diverse cultural values and traditions of the region, and offer a unique glimpse into the diverse ways love is expressed across Asia.
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Japan: Chocolates as Love Tokens…from Women
In Japan, the holiday is traditionally a day when women express their affection by giving chocolates to men. These chocolates are categorized into two types: giri-choco (obligation chocolates) for colleagues and acquaintances, and honmei-choco (true love chocolates) for romantic partners. This practice has evolved, with some men now reciprocating by giving chocolates to women, and a growing trend of women purchasing chocolates for themselves, known as jibun-choco.
Malaysia: Quest for Love
In Malaysia, the Chap Goh Mei festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, is often referred to as the Chinese Valentine’s Day. During this festival, unmarried women write their names and contact details on mandarin oranges and toss them into rivers or lakes. The belief is that a man who retrieves the orange will contact the woman, potentially leading to a romantic connection. This tradition, originating in Penang, has become a vibrant part of Malaysian culture.
Thailand: Marrying in the ‘Village of Love’
Thailand celebrates Valentine’s Day with couples flocking to Bangkok’s Bangrak district, known as the “Village of Love.” Here, many choose to marry on this day, believing that the district’s name will ensure a long-lasting marriage. Couples often line up early in the morning to register their marriages, making it a popular day for weddings.
Vietnam: Seeking Love and Blessings at Hanoi’s Pagodas
In Vietnam, young men and women visit ancient pagodas in central Hanoi on Valentine’s Day, offering prayers and seeking blessings in hopes of finding a partner. This tradition blends spiritual practices with the celebration of love, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Philippines: Love in Bulk
In the Philippines, Valentine’s Day is one of the most celebrated occasions. Public events often feature mass wedding ceremonies, where dozens or even hundreds of couples get married simultaneously. Yesterday, February 13, 2025, a total of 280 couples participated in a mass wedding in Quezon City, organized by the local government. This tradition allows couples to celebrate their love in a communal setting, often with the support of the local government.
Taiwan: The Language of Roses and Numbers
In Taiwan, roses are the traditional gift on Valentine’s Day, with the number of roses carrying specific symbolic meanings. This practice highlights the significance of numbers in Taiwanese culture, where each number can convey a different message: 11 roses are given to your “special someone,” 99 roses are given to someone you’ll love for eternity, and 108 roses are given to someone you’re proposing marriage to.
These unique traditions highlight the vibrant and diverse ways love is celebrated across Asia, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Each country’s customs offer a distinct perspective on romance, proving that no matter where you are in the world, love is always worth celebrating in a way that is true to its own cultural identity.
Photos and Featured Image: MEGA ARCHIVES, VIETNAM TIMES (via Website), PHILIPPINE STAR (via Facebook)
