Business booms ahead of Valentine´s Day

Perhaps the most global expression of love is the gift of flowers, and China is no exception.

At a flower market in Beijing, stalls are getting ready for Valentine's Day. Here, flowers of all kinds can be found, but without doubt it's the red rose that will be the most popular this week.

Chocolate is another traditional gift. The heart-shaped ones are the most popular. But some unusual shapes also do very well. There are cars, Mah Jongg tiles, and even chocolates shaped as Chinese chess pieces.

Different from ordinary chocolate shops, this one allows its customers to take an active role in creating the product. After all, a gift made by oneself bears more meaning and is more special.

While February 14th is the day for lovers in many countries, China also has its own version of Valentine's Day called Qi Xi. It is held on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month each year.

Some say it doesn't matter how many gifts they receive this weekend. As long as two loved ones are happy together, every day is Valentine's Day.