Valentine’s Day in Japan is a little different from many other countries.
Traditionally, women give chocolate to men, whether it’s romantic chocolate, friendship chocolate, or workplace gifts. In recent years, however, a new trend has become just as important: buying luxury chocolate as a reward for yourself.

And there is no better place to experience this culture than Tokyo.

From January to mid-February, the city transforms into a chocolate lover’s paradise. Department stores host spectacular Valentine’s events where top chocolatiers from around the world gather in one place. Limited editions, Japan-only chocolates, and beautifully crafted sweets fill the halls.

If you love chocolate, this is the season you should plan your Tokyo trip around.

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1. Salon du Chocolat 2026

Isetan Shinjuku – The World’s Most Prestigious Chocolate Festival

One of the biggest highlights of Tokyo’s Valentine season is Salon du Chocolat, a world-famous chocolate festival that originated in Paris.

In 2026, the event returns to Isetan Shinjuku starting January 15 and celebrates its 24th edition with a record-breaking 153 brands from around the world. The festival runs for nearly a month and is divided into three parts, allowing visitors to enjoy different themes and selections throughout the season.

This year’s theme,
“CODE & MODE: The Secrets of Flavor and Creative Craftsmanship,”
focuses on ingredients, production methods, and the philosophies behind each chocolatier’s creations.

A standout newcomer is Maison Henri, making its first appearance. Led by pastry chef Loïc Béziat, the brand is known for using high-quality ingredients such as hazelnuts from his hometown in Lot-et-Garonne, France.

Among the must-try items is the elegant assortment box
“Assortiment 12P” (12 pieces / ¥5,832) — perfect for gifting or indulging yourself.

Event Information

• Location: Isetan Shinjuku
• Nearest Station: Shinjuku-sanchome
• Dates:
  • PART 1: Jan 15 (Thu) – Jan 20 (Tue)
  • PART 2: Jan 24 (Sat) – Jan 29 (Thu)
  • PART 3: Jan 31 (Sat) – Feb 4 (Wed), Feb 7 (Sat) – Feb 15 (Sun)
    ※ Some dates require MI Card member priority entry in the morning.

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2. Ginza Sweets Collection 2026

A Chocolate Journey Through 13 Countries

Held at Ginza Mitsukoshi, the Ginza Sweets Collection 2026 runs from January 21 to February 14 and features chocolate and sweets from 13 countries around the world.

With the theme “Traveling Chocolate Sweets,” visitors can taste creations from France, Belgium, Japan, Nordic countries, and Asia—all under one roof. About 50 brands participate, including exclusive items, first-time appearances, and special in-store desserts.

A highlight is the Belgian royal-warrant chocolatier Madame Delluc, making its debut at Ginza Mitsukoshi. Their limited-edition box
“Jardin Secret” (¥2,160) features four heart-shaped chocolates flavored with strawberry, pistachio, jasmine, and vanilla.

The venue also offers soft-serve chocolate ice cream, freshly baked financiers, and warm chocolate tarts, making it a perfect stop during shopping.

Event Information

• Location: Ginza Mitsukoshi
• Dates: Jan 21 (Wed) – Feb 14 (Sat)

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3. HILLS SWEETS SELECTION 2026

Luxury Chocolate Across Tokyo’s Trendiest Districts

From January 23 to March 15, Roppongi Hills, Azabudai Hills, and Toranomon Hills host HILLS SWEETS SELECTION 2026, featuring Valentine’s and White Day sweets.

Across all three locations, about 80 shops and 140 items are showcased. The selection ranges from elegant gift boxes to refined desserts for personal enjoyment.

Notable picks include:

• Jean-Georges Tokyo (Roppongi Hills):
  “JG Chocolate Box 2026” (¥2,500) — sophisticated chocolates balancing surprise and harmony.
• BENOIT NIHANT (Toranomon Hills):
  “Tortue Box” (¥2,160) — a premium assortment using the finest cacao beans.

Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy chocolate while exploring Tokyo’s modern cityscape.

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4. Sweet Valentine’s Day at MARUI

Stylish Chocolates with a Playful Twist

The Valentine’s event “Sweet Valentine’s Day” takes place at 12 MARUI and MODI locations nationwide, starting with Yurakucho MARUI on January 27.

Around 60 brands participate, offering a wide variety of chocolates that match different moods and styles.

A must-see item is from bubó BARCELONA, a chocolate brand from Spain.
Their artistic creation,
“Chocolate Sculpture Jewel Heart” (¥3,590),
features a jewel-like heart filled with three mini heart chocolates—beautiful both inside and out.

Event Information

• Location: Yurakucho MARUI and other MARUI stores
• Nearest Station: Yurakucho
• Dates: Jan 27 (Tue) – Feb 15 (Sun)

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5. Chocolate Promenade 2026

Daimaru Tokyo & Matsuzakaya

Chocolate Promenade is the Valentine’s event held at Daimaru and Matsuzakaya department stores, including Daimaru Tokyo.

Alongside premium chocolates, visitors can enjoy a wide range of baked sweets and desserts carefully selected by the department store buyers.

• Dates: Jan 17 (Sat) – Feb 15 (Sun)

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6. Amour du Chocolat 2026

Takashimaya’s Beloved Valentine Event

Amour du Chocolat is one of Japan’s most popular Valentine events, hosted at Takashimaya stores nationwide.

World-renowned chocolatiers and pastry chefs participate, and many Takashimaya-exclusive items are available.

Highlights include fruit caramels by Jacques Genin and heart-shaped chocolates by Vincent Vallée.

Tokyo Venues & Dates

• Nihonbashi Takashimaya:
  Jan 22 (Thu) – Feb 14 (Sat)
• Shinjuku Takashimaya:
  Jan 22 (Thu) – Feb 14 (Sat)

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Final Tip for Travelers ✈️🍫

Tokyo’s Valentine season is not just about romance—it’s about discovering world-class chocolate, Japanese craftsmanship, and seasonal exclusives you can’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re shopping for someone special or treating yourself, don’t miss this sweet season in Tokyo.

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