In recent years China has adopted numerous influences from Western Culture. Valentine’s Day in particular has become a very popular holiday with China’s younger population.
In cities like Shanghai and Beijing, the event comprises a lot of commercial value.
“I remember being in Beijing on Valentine’s Day and how popular it was,” said Tamara Smolin, Sycamore resident. “The Pizza Hut by my hotel had a line nearly a mile long full of young couples.”
In China, the man is usually the one who gives chocolates or flowers to his partner. Women are rarely the ones who give presents.
“Women in China can be a little selfish on Valentine’s Day,” said Zicheng Zhao, 12.
Young people have become very inventive as to how to express their love for each other. One manordered 9,999 roses to make a dress for his girlfriend on Valentine ’s Day and proposed to her.
In China, the number, 10,000 is reserved for the gods. Because of this, the Forbidden City contains 9,999 rooms for it is believed that number is closer to the gods.
China also has its own traditional love holiday called Qixi. This holiday is celebrated on the 7th day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar.
It commemorates the one day of the year when the Cow Herder Star and the Weaving Maid Star are allowed to be together, separated by the Milky Way.
“Though Valentine ’s Day now overshadows Qixi, they are still both beautiful holidays that celebrate everlasting love,” said Zhao.