Valentine's Day in Tokyo

Yep, you've heard it before: February 14 in Japan is, ahem, different - women give men chocolate, and men, well, receive chocolate. Going on dates isn't at all as widespread as elsewhere in the world (although that seems to be quietly changing), and nobody really cares even if you're single - aside from being the wet dream of every chocolate maker out there, it's just another day. There's no way to get around this, so here's a few suggestions on how to get the most out of Valentine's Day, Tokyo-style.

Shop for special choccies

For luxurious French goodies

Fauchon St. Valentine
French gourmet dealer Fauchon are selling a selection of special chocolates made by some of the top sweets artists in the world. The 'Number Series' contains 10 flavours, ranging from vanilla to pistachio, while the 'Recipe Series' features wine-compatible tastes like rum raisin and lemon.
(Full details)

...And more Gallic favourites

Joël Robuchon's Special Valentine's Gift
Joël Robuchon's boutiques in Roppongi, Marunouchi, and Ebisu carry seven kinds of special gift boxes for Valentine's Day, including the 'Bon Bon Chocolat' six-piece set (¥2,520) that features the three flavours of raspberry, pistachio, and ganache. So good you'll want to buy one just for yourself.
(Full details)

Make your own

Chocolate Making at Lindt Jiyugaoka
Not only can you get the classic heart-shaped gift box from Swiss artisans Lindt for your beloved one, you can also drop by the café in Jiyugaoka to try making your own matcha or raspberry chocolate. Events are held twice on both Saturday and Sunday, and up to eight people can participate each time. Reservations are essential.
(Full details)

Stroll around...

..in Shibuya

Valentine's in Shibuya
Shibuya's top shopping spots from Tokyu to Hikarie and 109 get into the V-day mood with this event. Check out the life-size recreation of the Hachiko statue, made with 60 kg of pure chocolate, take advantage of the special offers available at participating stores, or create your own decorations at workshops.
(Full details)

...at the zoo

Sweet Tours
Learn about the game of love between animals on these guided tours of Ueno Zoo, Inokashira Park's zoo, or Tokyo Sea Life Park. Register on the day.
(Details for Ueno, Inokashira Park, and Tokyo Sea Life Park)

...or at Tokyo Tower

It's only on Valentine's Day that you can climb the 600-step staircase all the way up to the main observatory in the evening, allowing you to enjoy a spectacular night view of Tokyo with your beloved one on the most romantic night of the year.
(Full details)

Eat well

Taste a chocolate explosion

Special menu at Sarabeth's Daikanyama
Owing to its heavenly french toast and pancakes, Sarabeth's morning offering is known as the 'Queen of breakfasts'. This special Valentine's menu - 'Chocolate Explosion' - is only available at the Daikanyama location, and features a harmonious mixture of fluffy pancakes topped with chocolate sauce and marshmallows, finished off with a small explosion of chocolate sauce.
(Full details)

Go all-out

Valentine's at Conrad
Spend a very special Valentine's Day at Conrad Tokyo. Couples can choose from a selection of dinner plans and spa sets, while all the single ladies can go for the 'Who Needs Men?' afternoon tea deal, which comes with cocktails, champagne, and the dashing night view from the Twentyeight Bar and Lounge. Limited edition chocolates and cakes will also be on offer throughout the month of February.
(Full details)

Party...

...with punk and oranges

Valentine Rock
Live it up at Liquidroom with Japanese punk-poppers Bigmama, who will be releasing their latest album 'Sweet Dreams' at the end of the month. The ticket price includes a tangerine, the sweet taste of which should go nicely with the band's somewhat sour and angsty tunes.
(Full details)

...in Akihabara

Chocolate War
Mogra, centre of Akihabara's dance and club culture, celebrates V-Day with this highly original party that features DJs Wildparty and Tonya Harding. Prepare your chocolates.
(Full details)