Love is in the air! From ancient legends to modern traditions, Valentine’s Day in Asia is celebrated in many unique and fascinating ways.
While Valentine’s Day doesn’t always fall on 14 February, many Asian cultures dedicate one day, or sometimes several, to expressing love and affection. Asia is also home to some of the world’s most romantic destinations. Some places, like India’s Taj Mahal, are themselves powerful symbols of love.
From legendary love stories in China to romantic cherry blossom moments in Japan, here’s how some of Wendy Wu Tours’ favourite destinations celebrate love, along with the most romantic places to visit in each country.
In China, a traditional version of Valentine’s Day is celebrated during the Qixi Festival, which falls on the seventh day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar. This usually occurs in August.
The festival celebrates a legendary love story between a cowherd and a weaving maiden, who are separated for most of the year and allowed to reunite only once annually.
During the festival, young women traditionally pray for happiness and love. Today, celebrations can look similar to those in the West, with people exchanging flowers, chocolates and gifts. In major cities across China, 14 February Valentine’s Day celebrations are also becoming increasingly popular with younger generations.
Great Wall at Dawn
Watch the sunrise illuminate the ancient Great Wall of China, casting golden light over the surrounding mountains.
Yangshuo
This dreamy landscape feels straight out of a traditional Chinese painting, with towering karst peaks, winding rivers, rice paddies and peaceful villages.
Yunnan Province
Explore charming towns such as Dali, Lijiang and Zhongdian, where cobblestone streets, historic temples, teahouses and cosy cafés create a romantic atmosphere.
Lover's Lock on the Great Wall, Beijing
In India, love and marriage have traditionally been considered family matters rather than purely romantic partnerships, and public displays of affection are generally uncommon.
However, Valentine’s Day in India has grown in popularity in recent years, influenced by global culture and modern media. Couples now often celebrate by dining out, visiting cinemas or exchanging gifts.
Taj Mahal, Agra
Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is widely considered the most romantic monument in the world.
Kerala Backwaters
Cruise through serene canals on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by palm trees, lush landscapes and peaceful villages.
Udaipur
Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur offers grand palaces, sparkling waters and romantic rooftop restaurants overlooking the historic skyline.
In Japan, Valentine’s Day traditions are unique. Women traditionally give chocolates to men on 14 February, with each type of chocolate carrying a specific meaning.
Giri-choco (obligation chocolate)
Given to colleagues, bosses or acquaintances as a polite gesture.
Honmei-choco (true love chocolate)
Given to a romantic partner or someone a woman has strong feelings for.
Tomo-choco (friendship chocolate)
Shared among friends.
One month later, on 14 March, White Day, men return the favour by giving gifts or chocolates in return. The more elaborate the gift, the stronger the romantic sentiment.
Kyoto
Wander through ancient temples, tranquil gardens and traditional teahouses in this historic cultural capital. Visit during cherry blossom season for an unforgettable romantic setting.
Hakone Ryokan Experience
Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan, soak in natural onsen hot springs, and enjoy views of Mount Fuji.
Sunset at Miyajima
Watch the sun set over the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, as lanterns illuminate the peaceful island.
In Vietnam, Valentine’s Day has become popular in recent decades, especially among the younger generation. Couples celebrate much like in the West, exchanging flowers, chocolates and small gifts.
Traditionally, expressions of love were shared during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and through Bac Ninh love duets, a form of folk singing used to subtly express romantic feelings.
Dalat
Often called the “City of Love”, Dalat is famous for its lakes, waterfalls, gardens and charming colonial architecture.
Sapa
The dramatic mountain scenery of northern Vietnam provides spectacular sunrises and sunsets, alongside welcoming hill tribe communities.
Halong Bay
Cruise through the peaceful waters of Halong Bay, surrounded by limestone islands and towering karst formations.
Hoi An
This enchanting ancient town is filled with lantern-lit streets, art galleries and riverside cafés, with beautiful beaches just a short drive away.
From the legendary love story behind China’s Qixi Festival to the timeless beauty of India’s Taj Mahal, Asia offers some of the world’s most unforgettable romantic destinations.
Whether you're dreaming of cherry blossoms in Japan, a houseboat cruise in Kerala, or lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An, these destinations offer the perfect setting to celebrate love.
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