Salon du Chocolat is a special event for chocolate enthusiasts, bringing together chocolatiers from all over the world. Its highly anticipated online store, available each year, is particularly popular for offering the convenience of purchasing high-end chocolates from the comfort of your home.
However, many people face challenges, often expressing concerns about difficulties in buying products online. Factors such as the exclusive pre-sale period for MI Card members and limited stock availability can make it challenging to secure desired items, making preparation and accurate information gathering essential for success.
In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the online sales schedule and key considerations for Salon du Chocolat. Additionally, we’ll share helpful tips to ensure a smooth shopping experience. Based on the latest information, let’s explore how you can secure your favorite chocolates with confidence!
Experience the Sweetness of Salon du Chocolat 2025 Online
What is Salon du Chocolat?
Salon du Chocolat is the world’s largest chocolate event, originating in Paris, France. Held annually from January to February, it begins in Paris and extends to countries worldwide, including Japan. Renowned as a gathering of the world’s top chocolatiers and chocolate brands, this event holds a special place in the hearts of chocolate enthusiasts.
First launched in 1995, Salon du Chocolat has grown significantly over the years. In Japan, the event is organized by Isetan Mitsukoshi, with its main venue at Isetan Shinjuku, and is also hosted in various regions nationwide. It often coincides with the Valentine’s season, attracting countless visitors.
The hallmark of Salon du Chocolat lies in its grand scale and the luxurious lineup of participants. The event features not only world-famous chocolatiers but also emerging talents, creating an energetic atmosphere at every venue. In addition to chocolate sales, the event offers diverse programs such as live demonstrations, talks by chocolatiers, and exclusive product launches. Visitors can sample new creations, learn about the craftsmanship and philosophy behind the chocolates, and enjoy experiences far beyond a typical sales event.
The selection of chocolates is incredibly diverse, ranging from elegantly crafted bonbons and artisanal cacao bars to vegan and gluten-free options. This wide variety ensures that every attendee can find products perfectly suited to their tastes, further enhancing the event’s popularity.
However, its immense popularity also leads to significant crowding at the venues, with entry restrictions sometimes implemented. Additionally, sought-after items often sell out quickly, making prior research and strategic planning essential. In recent years, an online store option has been introduced, allowing those unable to attend in person to enjoy the exclusive chocolates from the comfort of their homes.
Salon du Chocolat is more than just an event—it’s a dreamlike experience for chocolate lovers, offering a unique and memorable opportunity to savor the world of chocolate in all its glory.
Check Out the Locations and Dates for Salon du Chocolat 2025!
Salon du Chocolat 2025 will be held across various locations in Japan, bringing together top chocolatiers from around the world. This is a must-attend event for chocolate enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the finest chocolates. Below, we’ve compiled the major venues and schedules. Be sure to mark your calendar and join the excitement!
Tokyo Venue
- Location: Isetan Shinjuku Store, Main Building 6th Floor, Event Hall
- Schedule:
- Part 1: January 15 (Wed) – January 20 (Mon), 2025
Theme: The Dynamic Moments of Cacao
Note: January 15 (Wed) is a special preview day for MI Card members only.
Closing time on January 20 (Mon): 6:00 PM - Part 2: January 24 (Fri) – January 29 (Wed), 2025
Theme: The Masterpieces of Top Chocolatiers and Patissiers
Note: January 24 (Fri) and 25 (Sat) are special preview days for MI Card members only.
Closing time on January 29 (Wed): 6:00 PM - Part 3: February 1 (Sat) – February 14 (Fri), 2025
Theme: NEXT The Ever-Expanding Allure of Chocolate
Note: February 1 (Sat) is a special preview day for MI Card members only.
Closing times on February 6 (Thu) and 14 (Fri): 6:00 PM
- Part 1: January 15 (Wed) – January 20 (Mon), 2025
- Highlights: The largest venue in Japan, featuring chocolatier demonstrations and exclusive products.
Osaka Venue
- Location: Hankyu Umeda Main Store, 9th Floor, Event Hall
- Schedule: January 22 (Mon) – January 28 (Sun), 2025
- Highlights: The largest event in the Kansai region, showcasing exclusive products and special events.
Nagoya Venue
- Location: Nagoya Mitsukoshi Sakae Store, 7th Floor, Event Hall
- Schedule: January 18 (Sat) – January 24 (Fri), 2025
- Highlights: Features limited-edition chocolates exclusive to the Tokai region and many first-time exhibitors.
Fukuoka Venue
- Location: Iwataya Main Store, Main Building 7th Floor, Event Hall
- Schedule: January 27 (Sat) – February 2 (Fri), 2025
- Highlights: Showcasing brands new to Kyushu and regionally exclusive flavors.
Sapporo Venue
- Location: Sapporo Mitsukoshi, Main Building 10th Floor, Event Hall
- Schedule: January 30 (Tue) – February 5 (Mon), 2025
- Highlights: Chocolates crafted with local Hokkaido ingredients will be featured.
Other Regions
- Additional locations and events are scheduled. Please check the official website for the latest details on dates and venues.
Tips for Enjoying the Event
- Special Preview Days for MI Card Members: Certain dates allow MI Card members exclusive early access. Don’t forget to bring your card!
- Online Sales: Can’t attend in person? Limited-edition chocolates will also be available online. Check the official website for details.
How to Purchase from the Salon du Chocolat 2025 Online Store
The Salon du Chocolat 2025 online store allows you to purchase luxury chocolates from the comfort of your home. To ensure a smooth shopping experience, here’s a clear guide to the key points:
Sales Schedule
For MI Card Members Only
- Period: Friday, January 3, 2025, 10:00 AM – Saturday, January 4, 2025, 11:59 PM
- Perk: MI Card members can shop earlier than the general public.
General Sales
- Period: Sunday, January 5, 2025, 10:00 AM – Sunday, February 2, 2025, 6:00 PM
- Note: Items sold out during the exclusive sales period will not be available during the general sales period.
Preparation Before Shopping
Membership Registration Required
To shop during the MI Card exclusive sales period, the following registrations are necessary:
- Mitsukoshi Isetan WEB Membership
- MI Card Plus Information Registration
MI Card New Membership Benefits
- First-year membership is free of charge.
- Receive 2,000 points as a special promotion (limited-time offer).
- Processing Time: Card issuance typically takes 1–2 weeks; up to 3 weeks depending on the review process.
- Urgent Applications: MI Card Counters offer same-day issuance. Provide application code “1017” and mention “Salon du Chocolat Online Store Exclusive Sales Period.”
Important Notes for Online Shopping
Virtual Waiting Room
- To manage high traffic during sales launches, a virtual waiting room may be used.
- Visitors will be directed to the website in the order of access.
Delivery Period
- Dates: Tuesday, February 11, 2025 (National Holiday) – Friday, February 14, 2025
- Some items may only be delivered on February 13 (Thursday) or 14 (Friday).
Delivery Restrictions During Peak Periods
- If orders are concentrated on specific dates, it may not be possible to accommodate your preferred delivery date.
Products Not Available Online at Salon du Chocolat and Key Purchasing Tips
- The Salon du Chocolat 2025 online store offers a convenient way to purchase premium chocolates from home
- MI Card members gain early access to limited-edition products before general sales begin
- General sales are available from January 5 to February 2, 2025
- Products sold out during the limited sales period will not be available during general sales
- A virtual waiting room may be implemented exclusively for MI Card members
- Registration as a Mitsukoshi Isetan Web Member is required for online purchases
- Some products requiring refrigeration are not available for online sales
- Limited-edition special products are sold exclusively at physical venues
- The virtual waiting room system organizes customer access during peak times
- Preparing credit card information in advance can streamline the ordering process
- Deliveries are scheduled between February 11 and February 14, 2025
- High demand on specific delivery dates may make date selection difficult
- Fresh chocolates, like ganache, are often limited to venue-only sales
- Chocolates prepared during live demonstrations by chocolatiers are venue exclusives
- Online descriptions provide detailed product information, making it easier to compare and choose