#Japan #Tokyo #Matsuya Ginza #Ginza Valentine #Cacao Experience

A Unique Sensory Experience at Ginza Valentine World 2026

Matsuya Ginza will host the GINZA Valentine World event from February 4 to 14, 2026, at the 8th-floor event square. This year's theme, "Enjoying Cacao through the Senses," aims to elevate the food experience, offering freshly made desserts, a chocolate and alcohol pairing bar, and live cooking demonstrations.

A highlight of this event will be the debut of a dessert course, where acclaimed pastry chefs will prepare exquisite plates right in front of guests. Besides delicious chocolates, attendees can explore the innovative fusion of Japanese ingredients with cacao and sustainable practices by various brands. With a total of 74 brands participating, including 23 offering eat-in and live sales, the event promises to tantalize all five senses.

Key Features of the 2026 Matsuya Ginza Valentine's Event

1. Live Sensory Experience
- Dessert Course Premiere: Enjoy a dessert course crafted by chefs live. Reservations open January 21, with limited seating.
- Star Pastry Chefs featuring exclusive chocolates and desserts.
- A Chocolate & Liquor Pairing Bar combining rich flavors with spirits.
- A Chocolate Salon showcasing popular chocolate drinks.

2. Japanese Ingredients and Cacao Fusion: Expect to see more brands utilizing locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the rich culinary diversity of Japan.

3. Sustainable Chocolate Initiatives: Brands will be showcasing their commitment to sustainability, providing insights into practices that help support cacao producers around the world.

4. The Buzzing Angel Hair Chocolate: A trendy dessert from Turkey, combining a delicate pastry covered in chocolate, is making its Japanese debut this year.

A Deep Dive into the Sensory Experience

1. Live Dessert Course

the opportunity to savor dishes prepared right before your eyes enhances the dining experience considerably. Chefs will orchestrate a 4-course dessert extravaganza, with each dish harmoniously paired with drinks to enrich the overall flavor profile. Guests are invited to indulge in stories behind each creation, embodying the philosophy of the artisan pastry chefs.

Special Guest Chefs

• - Yoshiko Hirase: Celebrated for her unique take on desserts, will present dishes such as:

- White Cacao with Bengal Spice served with Amazon cacao water.
- Strawberry, Champagne, and Cacao Pulp with a refreshing mocktail.
- Yacon with Venison Consommé showcasing the earth’s bounty.

• - Toshihiro Tanaka: Known for his mastery of Japanese teas, will unveil an exclusive menu combining cacao and local teas. Don't miss this chance to experience these exquisite offerings.

2. Exploring Local Ingredients

Brands are increasingly incorporating Japan-grown ingredients into their chocolate products. Expect limited edition treats that reflect the terroir of various regions across Japan, such as:

• - Cacao Bonbons with local citrus blended with international flavors.
• - Cacao pastries infused with Japanese herbs, showcasing a beautiful fusion of tastes.

3. A Commitment to a Sustainable Future

The event will spotlight brands dedicated to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. By connecting cacao with local communities, these producers pave the way for a more responsible chocolate industry.

4. The Trendy Angel Hair Chocolate

Join the trend by trying the Angel Hair Chocolate, inspired by a Turkish delight called Pişmaniye, elegantly paired with pistachios for a satisfyingly crunchy texture.

Extra Features

• - Special Sales on Unique Chocolate Products: The event will feature unique offerings from Aizu Wakamasu and other local artisans, ensuring that attendees can take home a piece of this exceptional experience.

• - Exclusive Member Perks: Selected Matsuya card members will receive gifts when spending a certain amount during the event, allowing them to indulge even further.

In conclusion, Matsuya Ginza's 2026 Valentine's event will be an unforgettable journey through taste, texture, and artistry, highlighting cacao's profound impact on modern gastronomy. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this luscious chocolate landscape. Mark your calendars for this exquisite manifestation of culinary creativity!