This article explores how love is viewed in Japan from traditional to modern times. In traditional Japan, love was seen as a duty rather than an emotion and couples were often paired together by their families without any input from either party. In modern times, people are free to choose their own partners based on mutual attraction and feelings of affection, but respect and loyalty remain important components of relationships. Arranged marriages are still common practice in Japan today while courtship rituals remain relatively unchanged with respect being a key component when expressing affection. Divorce rates have been steadily increasing over time due to changing attitudes towards marriage but it is still seen somewhat negatively by many. Ultimately, both Western cultures and Japan share similar values when it comes down to expressing affection towards one another.