On Qixi Valentine's Day, head to the "Lovers' Sanctuary" to express your feelings (1)

Photography & Text %q Haruki Kyouko

Although the hot summer continues, the joyful news is that August 16th is Qixi according to the lunar calendar—the Chinese version of “Valentine’s Day.” The air is suddenly filled with the spirit of love～ even slightly cooling down the sweltering heat. Where do you plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your beloved “anata” this year? Out of ideas? Well then, if there’s nowhere good in China, how about Japan? Here are some “Lovers’ Sanctuaries” that couples in Japan absolutely adore—recommended just for you!

The story behind these Lovers' Sanctuaries goes like this. It originates from a concept within the “Research on Dating Project” led by the Japanese nonprofit organization “The Association for Dating Research.” The report on the “Best Dating Spots,” selected and announced on April 19, 2006. The judging panel included notable figures such as Yumi Katsura (fashion design icon), Shogo Kariyazaki (master of ikebana), and Yuki Hayami (actress).

The spots chosen as sanctuaries are mostly surrounded by nature and boast beautiful night views. As of June 2010, there were already 100 selected sanctuaries. These 100 locations spread across Japan are perfect for couples to have heart-to-heart talks, ideal for long-married couples to rekindle their romance, and great venues for unmarried couples to pledge their love or even propose.