Long-Distance Relationship Day (Enkyori Renai no Hi)

What Is Long-Distance Relationship Day?

December 21st is "Long-Distance Relationship Day" in Japan. The day is said to have been proposed by Kenichi Oiwa, an announcer at FM Nagano. In the date "1221," the two "1"s on either end represent two people living apart, while the "22" in the middle represents the couple drawing close together. It's a day to cheer on couples in long-distance relationships, and is also said to be a day for them to meet before Christmas and reaffirm their feelings for each other.

The State of Long-Distance Relationships Today

• College and career transitions: Moving away for college or a new job is often cited as a common way long-distance relationships begin.
• Job transfers and relocations: Many relationships also become long-distance due to a partner's relocation or overseas assignment after entering the workforce.
• Staying in touch: Because chances to meet are limited, phone calls, messages, social media, and video calls become the main ways to connect.

Tips for Sustaining a Long-Distance Relationship

• Set a regular communication routine: Establish habits like a daily chat message or a weekly video call.
• Decide on your next meeting in advance: Setting a date for your next visit helps ease the anxiety of being apart.
• Surprise each other: Make birthdays and anniversaries special with a surprise visit or a thoughtful gift sent in the mail.
• Share long-term goals: Talk together about concrete plans for when and where you might eventually live in the same place.

Ideas for Long-Distance Relationship Day

• Have a longer-than-usual video call and really take your time talking.
• Write a handwritten letter — it carries a warmth that texts and social media can't replicate.
• Try an "online dinner date," where you both eat the same meal together over video chat.