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May 24, 2019

Dating Differences: Dates in Japan

You did it! You finally got a date with that cute girl/guy! Or maybe you just want to spend a nice day with your long term significant other. What should you do? There are of course the typical dinner and movie dates, but they don’t seem as typical in Japan. In America, we often go putt-putt golfing, roller skating, or take a class together. However, many of these things are not an option in Japan, so what is?


Dating Differences: Dates in Japan photo

Picture: www.pixabay.com 


Bowling

Bowling seems like a popular activity in Japan, not only for dates, but for family or friend outings as well. Most bowling centers are connected to an arcade, so many couples spring to do purikura together too! Or some Dance Dance Revolution, my personal favorite!


Dating Differences: Dates in Japan photo

My favorite purikura ever!!


Shopping

Bowling not your style? Try a shopping date! I admit that some people do this as a couple in the states, but most men like to be left out of shopping back home. But my Japanese boyfriend? He loves it! We frequently go shopping together in the city, and many other couples do as well. Broke? Window shopping works too! Plus, you can take a break from shopping and enjoy eating at a nice café together. It is the perfect date! Although, I recommend comfortable shoes… 


Flowers

Like the outdoors, but hiking is too much for a date? Japan has many beautiful gardens to visit. No matter the time year, there always seems to be something in season, from cherry blossoms to sunflowers! Plus, in the fall you could see the colored leaves! Since it is spring, this is something I am looking forward to doing a lot!


Dating Differences: Dates in Japan photo

My boyfriend and I actually decided to come here for a date! 


Go for a drive

Japanese people seem to really enjoy going for a drive. For me, since I come from the states, driving is embedded in my mind as a necessity, so I don't really understand the desire to go for a drive. However, I believe that since people in Japan don't drive as much, they quite enjoy it. When I was searching for date ideas in Japan, this came up as a recommendation several times. 


Festivals

As I am sure you know, there is no shortage of festivals in Japan. Couples often go to these festivals together! One hugely popular option is going on a yukata date to fireworks festivals. 


What kind of dates have you noticed are popular?


ReishiiTravels

ReishiiTravels

Teacher, Traveler, Dancer -
Currently living in Gifu -
I love Japan, dance, cats, food, and fashion!


3 Comments

  • TonetoEdo

    on May 25

    A day at the onsen. You think, wait, it’s segregated. But what you do is check in at the desk and then decide on how much time you’ll want. 30 or 40 minutes is good for soaking, pampering, and relieving any jitters you might have. And you’ll look so fresh and relaxed for your date. Meet up for a meal or a drink. The onsen itself can be a good topic of conversation. If you drink, limit it to one because you might go back in for a second dip, and bath and alcohol don’t mix well. Double dates at onsen are great, too, as you’ve got company the whole time.

  • KamaT

    on May 27

    I'm definitely seconding the "shopping," especially for a date early in a relationship -- it's relaxed, you're free to move around, it places minimal pressure on having to force conversation, and you can learn about each others likes / dislikes etc. Kind of related to shopping but places like Roppongi Hills (in Tokyo) I think are good as you've got the shopping aspect, view points, little exhibits, food vendors, cafes, places to sit outside, it looks pretty spectacular in the evening ... I think places like this make for a good all-round date spot.

  • ReishiiTravels

    on May 28

    That is a great idea! I am going to try that! :)