Experience a Japanese Christmas at MITSUKOSHI BGC
The allure of experiencing Christmas in Japan captivates the hearts of Filipinos. Marked by extravagant illuminations and decors that transform urban landscapes into mesmerizing winter wonderlands, these lights aren’t just for aesthetics; they reflect the Japanese appreciation of beauty and light, especially during the darker winter months.
Food is another reason people travel to the Land of the Rising Sun. I would probably skip a fried chicken meal, which has become a traditional Japanese Christmas dinner, to save room for a hot bowl of ramen and the Japanese Christmas cake topped with fresh strawberries. Japan offers a unique blend of customs and modern celebrations that are delightful and intriguing. The good news is, you don’t need to travel to Japan to experience these.
MITSUKOSHI BGC and The Seasons Residences bring the unique Japanese Christmas spirit to the Philippines. Highlighting the spirit of giving, sharing, and togetherness, these companies meld Japanese culture with Filipino tradition to kick off their festive holiday celebrations and activities aimed to bring Filipino families closer—creating a uniquely Japanese yuletide experience for all to remember.
Starting its grand Christmas celebration in true Japanese tradition, Federal Land, Inc. Chairman Alfred V. Ty led the Kagami Biraki—a sacred sake barrel-opening ceremony symbolizing new beginnings. He was joined by Mitsukoshi Federal Retail Inc. President Tetsuo Koike, MITSUKOSHI BGC’s General Manager Yoji Kawaguchi, Federal Land, Inc.’s Commercial Business Group Head Charmaine Bauzon, and MITSUKOSHI BGC’s Senior Marketing Manager Yuriko Takatori, who introduced the year’s theme, Okurimono—the Japanese tradition of gift-giving, emphasizing the importance of love and thought put into selecting the perfect gift for each loved one. This extends from Omotenashi, a deeply rooted Japanese philosophy that heralds Japanese hospitality and care.
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Known for housing the widest selection of Japanese items in the Philippines while bringing a piece of Japan into the country, MITSUKOSHI BGC offers a wide array of food, fashion, beauty and home products, books, and oh-so-cute covetable Japanese novelty items that make perfect Christmas gifts for everyone to enjoy.
Following the delightful musical performance of the Vocalismo Choral Group, a talented ensemble from the UST Conservatory of Music and FEU, guests were led outside to admire MITSUKOSHI BGC’s signature lion, fashioned in festive Christmas gear. This beloved symbol has been a hallmark of MITSUKOSHI stores throughout Japan since 1914.
The unveiling of Mitsuko, the giant, stunning, and playful Kokeshi doll outdoor art installation brought up the excitement for the celebration. Kokeshi dolls represent traditional Japanese wood craftsmanship and symbolize hope for bounty, good luck, and fortune. Mitsuko welcomes everyone to a world of Japanese charm and hospitality. A vibrant character who loves shopping, karaoke, and, of course, delicious food, Mitsuko embodies the playful spirit of Christmas and Japanese culture. With her magical snow effect and festive charm, Mitsuko stands as a guide through a series of delightful holiday events and promotions at MITSUKOSHI BGC throughout the Christmas season.
A season of specials
Starting November 20, 2024, guests can meet Mitsuko, snap a selfie, and share it on Instagram with the hashtags #MITSUKOSHIBGC and #MITSUKO to receive a free Key Coffee voucher—available for the first 200 posts! This is just one of the many ways MITSUKOSHI BGC spreads holiday cheer this season.
The holidays are a time to indulge, and MITSUKOSHI BGC makes it easy with extended dining hours and a festive selection of gourmet delights. From December 1 to 31, enjoy a variety of restaurants offering exclusive holiday promotions, including a Dine-In Raffle promotion with exciting prizes like a MacBook Pro, restaurant gift certificates, and more.
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Are you looking for the perfect gift? MITSUKOSHI BGC offers free gift-wrapping services for purchases over P1,000, featuring exclusive wrapping paper from Isetan Mitsukoshi Japan. Whether you’re treating yourself or someone special, there’s no better way to make this holiday season unforgettable.
From December 20 to 22, children can join in the fun at the Christmas Kids Event, featuring sing-alongs, mini-games, workshops, and sweet treats from participating tenants. Live musical performances and a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus from December 23 to 25 promise to make the season extra magical for the little ones.
The Japanese lifestyle at the Seasons Residences
Discover living in style and culture for all seasons. The Seasons Residences, the four-tower residential masterpiece above MITSUKOSHI BGC, was developed by Federal Land, Inc. in partnership with Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. This is the address for the fashionable, the discerning, and those who appreciate a lifestyle that seamlessly blends Japanese innovation with timeless elegance.
Connected directly via exclusive elevator access to the renowned MITSUKOSHI BGC, The Seasons Residences gives residents exclusive access to world-class dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. From curated shopping to authentic Japanese dining experiences, every day feels like an experience crafted for those with refined tastes.
Located within Grand Central Park, Federal Land’s master-planned community in BGC, this exclusive residential development combines the best of Japanese living and Filipino hospitality. It offers residents an elevated lifestyle that includes access to luxury dining, world-class shopping, and cultural experiences.
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The Seasons Residences also boasts a suite of thoughtfully curated amenities that elevate the living experience. From a state-of-the-art fitness gym and lush gardens to a spa, music room, and business center, every amenity is designed with relaxation and functionality in mind. Residents can enjoy a unique blend of Japanese-inspired features such as the Guest House for hosting friends and family, and spaces for leisure, creativity, and well-being.
More than just a place to live, The Seasons Residences presents honmono, an authentic Japanese living experience. Designed to inspire and elevate, it’s a space for trailblazers, tastemakers, and individuals who value authenticity and cultural depth.
Every unit at The Seasons Residences perfectly blends elegance and practicality. With thoughtfully designed features like a space-saving kitchen sink, Japanese oil-filter rangehood, air-washing tiles, and a sunken slab or below-floor drainage systems, these features speak to a lifestyle where no detail is overlooked. With layouts ranging from cozy two-bedroom units (starting at 60 sqm) to expansive three-bedroom homes (up to 177.5 sqm), every corner of your high-rise home offers the perfect balance of space, luxury, and breathtaking city views.
Unit handover for The Seasons Residences’ first tower, Haru, is ongoing, while the fourth tower, Fuyu, is available for pre-selling. This is your last chance to own a piece of Japan in the vibrant heart of BGC. Create a home that reflects your aspirations and join others who appreciate the essence of timeless luxury.
MITSUKOSHI BGC and The Seasons Residences invite everyone to discover the most wonderful gift it has to offer: a cultural journey filled with style, tradition, and meaningful moments.
To learn more, visit www.theseasonsresidences.ph or call The Seasons Residences hotline at 0919-0762502 to book an exclusive preview of what honmono or authentic Japanese living is all about at its showroom located at 7th Avenue corner 34th Street, Grand Central Park, BGC. Exclusive deals and offers await.
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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Federal Land.