Materialism takes centre stage during Chinese Valentine’s Day as people use the love language ‘easily and directly’
- There are now several Valentine’s Days in China apart from February 14
- Gift buying as an expression of love is a major part of emerging customs these days
In China, May 20 or 520, which when pronounced sounds similar to saying “I love you” in Mandarin, is a Chinese version of Valentine’s Day which has become increasingly popular as a day to express love.
Bao said on each of the different Valentine’s Days her boyfriend will either send her gifts, such as jewellery, cosmetics or handbags, or take her to dinner at a luxury restaurant.
“I value the sense of ceremony,” she said. “He did this to show his love for me.”
Throughout the year, mainland China celebrates various Valentine’s Days, including the Western day of February 14, the traditional Chinese Qixi Festival, May 20 and March 14 —when pronounced in Mandarin, the date sounds like “love you my whole life”. Some people also regard September 9 as an important day to mark their love since the number nine represents eternity in traditional Chinese culture.
