Top 27 Japanese Love Sayings (And What They Actually Mean)
By Christina Economos | June 26th, 2025
Japanese love sayings can be confusing and hard to understand, especially if you are from a non asian country. Japanese is so much more indirect and polite than its English counterparts, how does one know how to express their emotions or feelings?
Japanese love sayings can be very unique and heartfelt, however so difficult to know who, what, and where to say it.
Whether you're learning Japanese to connect with someone special, or if you’re just curious as to how Japanese love sayings are expressed, this article will walk you through some of the most well-known and culturally relevant Japanese love sayings.
This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.
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How Do People Express Love and Affection in Japan?
In Japan, people express love and affection quite differently from those in many Western cultures. Japanese love sayings tend to be more subtle and indirect, unlike the West, where openly sharing emotions and physical affection is more common. Instead of frequently saying “I love you” or engaging in public displays of affection, many Japanese people show their feelings through context, thoughtful actions, and quiet gestures.
How Japanese People Show their Affection in Indirect Ways?
One key concept of Japanese culture that goes into this is “Tatemae” and “Honne”-a cultural distinction between a person's true feelings (honne) and what they present to society (tatemae). This cultural and social norm encourages modesty, humbleness, and restraint, meaning that people will hide strong emotions, including romantic feelings, to keep the peace. Expressing love or love sayings directly or too strongly can be seen as embarrassing or disruptive especially in large group settings.
Another cultural concept is “空気を読める”(kuuki wo yomeru), or “reading the air”. This is best translated as “read the room”-referring to the ability to sense others feelings based on context and react appropriately without a lot of verbalization. In more romantic situations, this can mean what your partner is saying or what your partner wants through observation and shared experiences without them explicitly telling you. For example, buying their favorite snack or you offering to run an errand for them can sometimes speak louder than words can.
This contrast can create tension with many Western cultures—especially Romance languages—where love often relies on open communication, physical closeness, and verbal affirmations. In these cultures, saying “I love you” is not only common but often expected in both romantic and close platonic relationships. Public displays of affection are generally accepted and even encouraged. In Japan, however, such behavior may be seen as inappropriate, particularly among older generations who value privacy and restraint in expressing emotion.
Do Japanese People Say “I Love You”? How Do they Verbally Express Love Sayings in Japan?
The literal translation for “I love you”- aishiteiru (愛している)- is said less frequently than its Western equivalent. It’s often reserved for deep, serious situations or very private, intimate moments. Even less stronger sayings in Japanese such as “好きだ” (suki da), which literally means I like you, are not even said as frequently as “I love you” is in the West.
In Japan, love is usually expressed through acts of caring and service. Doing small favors, remembering occasions, preparing meals, or standing silently by each other during hard times are valued behaviors. These small, frequent actions convey commitment and love without words. Even some people like to express love in the form of shared routines, like riding to work together or eating at the same restaurant each week, rather than exaggerated declarations.
Changing Expressions of Japanese Love Sayings
Over the past few decades, globalization, Western media, interracial relationships, and generational shifts have changed how many Japanese people express love. Younger generations, especially in cities, tend to feel more at ease with verbal affection and public displays of romance. Influences like social media, romantic films, and exposure to other cultures have helped normalize saying “I love you,” holding hands, and celebrating anniversaries more openly.
At the same time, traditional expressions of love still play a strong role, particularly in rural areas and among older couples. Japan’s romantic culture now blends quiet, indirect gestures with more expressive, Western-style behavior. Although people may show love more visibly today, many still value thoughtfulness, steady loyalty, and unspoken understanding at the heart of their relationships.
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Kokuhaku Culture
In Japanese culture, “kokuhaku” (こくはく/告白), or “a confession” is the act of openly confessing or declaring your romantic feelings for someone, usually with the intention of dating that person. Unlike the more casual dating culture in the West, doing “kokuhaku” is often considered a formal and pivotal step towards a relationship in Japanese romance. It typically involves one person directly telling the other person that you like them, typically common in a lot of high school romance. If the other person accepts, then they officially become a couple.
What makes kokuhaku culturally unique is that it stands out as one of the few moments in Japanese culture where emotional directness is not only accepted—but expected. In a society known for indirect communication and subtle expressions of love, kokuhaku marks a rare instance of open, declarative intent. People often wait until they’re truly certain before confessing, because this moment carries weight. It doesn’t just signal interest—it marks the official beginning of a romantic relationship, not just a casual date or flirtation.
This ritual has strong roots within Japanese media and real expectations, especially among youth and students. The majority of couples consider the kokuhaku moment a vital milestone, even more so than anniversaries or Valentine's Day. While the way relationships evolve in Japan is shifting over time, kokuhaku is a valued and traditional custom that continues to rule the process in which love begins for a majority of people in Japan.
5 Ways Japanese People Confess their Love- From Dating to Marriage
XX No Koto ga Zutto Ki ni Natta
| Romaji | XXno koto ga zutto ki ni natta |
| Japanese | XXのことがずっと気になってた |
| English | I've had feelings for you for a while |
This phrase is a very soft and casual way to express your interest in someone- not explicitly your undying love for them. This phrase can also translate to “you’ve been on my mind for a long time” and it’s often used in the early stages of a confession. With it being super gentle and a bit indirect, it doesn’t carry the same weight as “suki da” however it still definitely sets the tone as a good base to say before a proper confession. However by itself is typically not enough by itself is not enough to lead into a relationship-it is more as opening the door to deeper feelings.
Suki Desu
| Romaji | suki desu |
| Japanese | 好きです |
| English | I like you |
This is the most direct and general way to confess romantic feelings to someone in Japanese. “Suki” can mean “to like” in a general sense, however explicitly telling someone “suki desu” in such a context carries clear romantic intent, especially during kokuhaku. While it is very direct, it is still much softer than “aishiteru” (I love you) in the context of a confession or a kokuhaku, sometimes saying “suki desu” is followed by “tsukiatte kudasai”.
Tsukiatte Kudasai
| Romaji | Tsukiatte kudasai |
| Japanese | 付き合ってください |
| English | Please go out with me |
This is a very typical phrase after saying “suki desu” when trying to pursue a relationship with somebody. It is essentially a formal request to start a relationship and is commonly used in confessions. Saying “tsukiatte kudasai” without confessing your love such as “suki desu” can feel a bit awkward and too direct. Especially in Japan where a proper build up is valued. Think of it as if someone just said “lets date” without at least saying “I like you” beforehand.
Kekkonshite Kudasai
| Romaji | kekkonshite kudasai |
| Japanese | 結婚してください |
| English | Please marry me |
As in English, this is usually only said during proposals or when wanting to marry someone and not used when wanting a more casual, boyfriend and girlfriend type of relationship. In Japan, expressions of love and commitment tend to be more reserved, so when someone uses a phrase like this, it often reflects a deep intention, especially in the context of marriage."
Issei Isho Ni Itai
| Romaji | issei issho ni itai |
| Japanese | 一生一緒にいたい |
| English | I want to be with you for the rest of my life |
This is an emotionally powerful phrase, also often used during marriage proposals. It expresses a deep desire to be with someone for the rest of their lives, and of course is usually paired or said after “kekkon shite kudasai”. Not only does it convey love, but it conveys a long-term emotional commitment.
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5 Ways Japanese People Express “I love you”
Suki Da
| Romaji | suki da |
| Japanese | 好きだ |
| English | I like you |
As said previously, this love saying is obviously the most common way to express romantic interest. While it literally means “I like you”, it can carry a softer “I love you” tone depending on the context. For friendships, it’s usually appropriate once you've gotten close to someone. Try to avoid saying this to someone you’re not very close with or do not know well-it can come off as forward and out of place.
Formalities
Adding da vs. desu depends on how close you are with the person you are speaking to. However, generally da or da yo (yo adds emphasis) is used because typically love confessions require some type of close relationship!
Dai Suki Da
| Romaji | daisuki da |
| Japanese | 大好きだ |
| English | I really you |
Adding “dai” (big) to “suki” adds an emphasis and makes this a slightly stronger expression of affection. It's really warm and casual, often used by couples and close friends. While it shows strong feelings, it is still not as strong as “aishiteru”. It is best to not say it way too early on into a relationship and in formal situations.
Aishiteru
| Romaji | issho ni itai |
| Japanese | 一緒にいたい |
| English | I want to be with you |
This is the most intense and direct way to say “I love you”. It is rarely used in daily life and usually reserved for serious, long term relationships-like married couples. Even then, the love saying is saved for rare, emotional moments. Unlike the West, it is not something that is said often.
Koishiteru
| Romaji | kimi ha watashi ni totte tokubetsu na hito da |
| Japanese | 君は私にとって特別な人だ |
| English | you're a special person to me |
"Koishiteru” has a much more dramatic, poetic feel. It expresses being emotionally wrapped up in someone. You usually hear it in songs and poetic heartfelt declarations. It is a bit too intense for casual or early stage feelings and definitely not something you would say to a crush or just a friendship.
Issho Ni Itai
| Romaji | kimi ga inai to samishii |
| Japanese | 君がいないと寂しい |
| English | I feel lonley without you |
This expresses a desire to be physically or emotionally close to someone. It is usually said by people who are already dating. If used too early or too frequently it can be seen as clingy- especially because Japanese people really value their space. For a softer version, try: 一緒に過ごせてうれしいです/issho ni sugosete ureshii desu (I’m happy we can spend time together).
12 Classic Japanese Love Sayings
Kimi Ga Inai To Samishii
| Romaji | aishiteru |
| Japanese | 愛してる |
| English | I love you |
Intimate without being over affectionate- great for deepening a relationship. A soft way to tell someone that their presence matters to you.
Kimi No Koto Wo Kangaeru Dake De Shiawase
| Romaji | koishiteru |
| Japanese | 恋してる |
| English | I am in love with you |
A very poetic and heartfelt expression. Usually not said verbally but maybe in a poem or love letter. Maybe if a couple is having a very romantic moment, maybe saying this can be appropriate.
Kimi Wa Watashi Ni Totte Tokubetsu Na Hito Da
| Romaji | kimi no koto wo kangaeru dake de shiawase |
| Japanese | 君のことを考えるだけで幸せ |
| English | Just thinking about you makes me happy |
A sincere way to show appreciation and affection. It is warm and respectful, which makes it good even early on into a relationship. This can be used with friends but it's very strong so maybe it is more reserved for best friends that you have been friends with for many years.
Anata No Egao Ga Suki Da
| Romaji | anata no egao ga suki da |
| Japanese | あなたの笑顔が好きだ |
| English | I like your smile |
Sweet and lighthearted. Not as romantic as it is sweet. A good compliment during a casual conversion or a flirty exchange.
Kimi To Iru To Anshin Suru
| Romaji | kimi to iru to anshin suru |
| Japanese | 君といると安心する |
| English | I feel at ease when I'm with you |
Expresses emotional security and comfort. A sweet and mature way to show your partner that you feel safe and grounded with them.
Kimi Ga Hohoemu To Sekai Ga Kagayakuyo
| Romaji | kimi ga hohoemu to sekai ga kagayakuyo |
| Japanese | 君が微笑むと世界が輝くよ |
| English | Your smile lights up the world |
A romantic and poetic line that sounds like something out of a love letter or a poem. It has a bit of western flair and dramatic charm as well.
Koi No Yokan
| Romaji | koi no yokan |
| Japanese | 恋の予感 |
| English | Preminintion of Love |
Unlike love at first sight, if anything this love saying is closer to love at second sight. It describes the feeling of when you meet someone and you just know you are going to fall in love with them. Maybe you don’t love them at that moment, but one day you will.
This word is also more poetic and is a word to describe a feeling more than said to someone.
Kimi Wa Watashi No Subete Da
| Romaji | kimi wa watashi no subete da |
| Japanese | 君は私のすべてだよ |
| English | You are my everything |
A dramatic and passionate love saying, typically used in deep relationships. Definitely not used in casual dating
Koi Wa Moumoku
| Romaji | koi wa moumoku |
| Japanese | 恋は盲目 |
| English | Love is blind |
An older but relatable love saying. It suggests that love can make one overlook flaws and imperfections- a universal concept that can occur within any culture.
Ai Wa Katsu
| Romaji | ai wa katsu |
| Japanese | 愛は勝つ |
| English | Love conquers all |
Famous and uplifting. Not really said in real life but a good quote to describe conquering obstacles that any relationship faces.
Ichi Go Ichi E
| Romaji | ichi go ichi e |
| Japanese | 一期一会 |
| English | Once in a lifetime meeting |
A beautiful Japanese phrase that reminds people to cherish any meeting or encounter as something unique and unrepeatable. Can be used to describe friendly encounters or romantic encounters. It is perfect for expressing gratitude for a special connection.
5 Romantic Words in Japanese
Rennai
| Romaji | rennai |
| Japanese | 恋愛 |
| English | Romance |
The book definition Japanese word for love or romance. The general term for all concepts of romantic love in Japanese
Ryouomoi
| Romaji | ryouomoi |
| Japanese | 両想い |
| English | Mutual love |
Used to describe when two people have mutual feelings for eachother, or when the feeling is mutual. A common phrase in romance dramas and confessions.
Hitomebore
| Romaji | hitomebore |
| Japanese | 一目惚れ |
| English | Love at first sight |
Literally means “falling in love at first look”. It takes the word “horeru”, meaning to fall for someone. Often used in storytelling or when telling your friends about someone you really liked when you first saw them; pretty similar to English.
Tokimeku
| Romaji | tokimeku |
| Japanese | ときめく |
| English | To have your heart skip a beat |
This verb can describe the “butterfly” feeling you have after seeing someone you like. It literally means “to flutter”, “palpate”, or “throb” depending on the context.
Koibito
| Romaji | koibito |
| Japanese | 恋人 |
| English | Lover |
More formal and poetic than everyday terms like “kareshi”(boyfriend), or “kanojo” (girlfriend). This isn’t really said in casual talk; usually used in romantic poems, songs, love letters, or heartfelt expressions.
Interview about How Japanese People Actually Use Japanese Love Sayings
After interviewing with 3 Japanese people- one from Aomori (rural Japan), one from Okinawa (islands of Japan), and one from Osaka (who also lived in America)- I think I got some helpful insight on which Japanese love sayings people truly use.
Person from Aomori- 19 Years Old (Half American)
From what he told me, he thinks the following are the most natural and useful love sayings which he would use himself and with a romantic partner. He also changed a bit the way the phrase is said- he thinks it is the most natural way to say it.
“Aishiteruyo” (I love you)
“Daisuki da yo” (I really like you)
“Suki da yo” (I like you)
“Issho ni itai” (I want to be with you)
“Kimito kekkon shitai” (I want to marry you)
“Kimi wa ore no subete da yo” (You are everything to me)
“Kimi ga inai to samishii” (I feel lonely without you)
“Kimi wa ore ni totte tokubestu na hito” (You are a special person to me)
Adding “yo” to the end of the word adds emphasis- perfect for when you’re telling someone you love them. He also changed “watashi” (I) to “ore”, which also means I but a very masculine and informal way to say "I", which is also appropriate to use with someone you’re really close with.
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Friend from Okinawa- 20 Years Old
When asked which phrases she would actually use, she said the following:
“XX no koto ga zutto ki ni natta” (I’ve had feelings for you for a while)
“Tsukiatte kudasai” (Please date me)
“Suki da” (I like you)
“Daisuki da” (I really like you)
“Aishiteru” (I love you)
“Anata no egao ga suki” (I like your smile)
“Kimi ga inai to samishii” (I feel lonely without you)
“Issho ni itai” ( I want to be with you)
“Kimi to iru to anshin suru” (I feel at ease when I’m with you)
“Soba ni ite kurete arigatou” (Thanks for staying by my side)
She says that these ones are the ones she found most natural and ones she can see herself actually using. She also mentions that saying love sayings in Japanese feels more cringey to her for some reason- maybe making it seem like for some Japanese people it is just the language itself, and even just speaking or love sayings are easier said in English because Japanese is a very indirect language.
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Friend from Osaka - 23 Years Old (Grew up in the US for a Few Years)
When asked to pick some love sayings she would use, she actually gave me a list of love sayings she thinks are “too much”/unnatural:
“Koishiteru” (I am in love with you)
“Horeteru” (I am charmed by you)
“Kimi ga hohoemu to sekai ga kagayaku yo” (Your smile lights up the world)
“Koi no yokan” (Premonition of love)
“Ai wa katsu” (Love wins)
She also mentions that “ichi go ichi e” (once in a lifetime meeting) is mainly for friendships rather than romantic encounters.
She says that she WOULD use the following:
“Issho ni itai” (I want to be with you)
“Suki da” (I like you)
“Dai suki da” (I really like you)
“Kimi wa watashi ni totte tokubetsu” (you’re special to me)
“Koi wa moumoku” (love is blind)
She mentions she would use the first 4 with friends.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it is clear that the most common ones are “suki da” “daisuki da” "aishiteru” and “issho ni itai”. So whether you want to show your affection to a friend or a romantic partner, Japanese people still prefer to use the basic gentlest ways to verbally express Japanese love sayings. Of course even some of them that they listed themselves think some are kind of corny and/or cringey to say in public, too often, or too fast which goes to show Japanese’s preference for keeping things more slow and indirect. This really comes down to the fact that Japanese culture just doesn’t have a deep emotional emphasis on words, but rather in many other ways. Of course Japanese people- especially depending on the person- do want and long for verbal love sayings to be said to them.
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Ultimate Guide to Japanese Culture
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Ultimate Guide to Japanese Idioms
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Tongue Twisters
