By Aiza Gaufo
It’s exhilarating to know that Manila’s Christmas celebration is now even more festive and cultured, with the Japanese concept of “okurimono” or “gift” more felt and easier accessed through the immersive efforts by posh shopping center Mitsukoshi BGC.
Mitsukoshi BGC, the Manila-based department store of the popular Japan-founded chain of malls Mitsukoshi, is delighted to introduce a series of immersive activities that celebrate the joy of giving, sharing, and togetherness within a cultural journey full of style and tradition.
Located within The Seasons Residences, a premium development by Federal Land, Inc. and its Japanese partners Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd., Mitsukoshi BGC offers an unparalleled Japanese-inspired lifestyle. Residents of The Seasons Residences enjoy direct access to Mitsukoshi BGC’s curated retail and dining options, creating a seamless blend of world-class living and cultural experiences.
With three central gifting themes—The Gift of Celebration, The Gift of Sharing, and The Gift of Entertainment—there’s something special for everyone to enjoy.
Mitsukoshi BGC Christmas features a visual that aligns with the Isetan Mitsukoshi Christmas campaign created by Akira Minagawa. This global campaign features an array of unique characters with individuality, creating a fresh impression of Japanese Christmas. Alongside this, it will also showcase a wonderful blend of Japanese, Western, and Filipino Christmas traditions with a series of live entertainment and kid-friendly events.
Kokeshi Doll in Manila
Opening the Yuletide season was the unveiling of Mitsuko, the chic and playful Kokeshi doll by Mitsukoshi BGC.
Mitsuko welcomes guests 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.
This year, the special Kokeshi Doll Mitsuko installation, with a magical snow effect, brings the Christmas spirit of Japan to Metro Manila. Guests are invited to 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 customers who post! This promotion runs until November 30, 2024.
In addition to the holiday festivities, Mitsukoshi BGC proudly displays its iconic Lion Statue, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune that has graced the entrance of MITSUKOSHI’s Nihombashi store since 1914. For the first time ever, this beloved statue has crossed the sea to the Philippines, offering visitors a chance to experience the spirit of Omotenashi—the Japanese art of hospitality. The statue will welcome guests to create new memories with loved ones during this holiday.
A Feast for the Holidays: Dining and Gift-Giving Delights
The holiday season is also a time to gather around the table, and Mitsukoshi BGC has curated a selection of festive dining options with extended dining hours for customers to enjoy: Monday to Thursday 11AM to 10PM, Friday 11AM to 11PM, and Saturday, Sunday, and holidays 10AM to 11PM. Guests are invited to enjoy delectable dishes from the diverse range of restaurants housed within Mitsukoshi BGC, with incredible promotions that make celebrating the holidays with family and friends even more special.
From December 1 to 31, a Dine-In Raffle Promotion offers patrons the chance to win exciting prizes, including a MacBook Pro, restaurant gift certificates, Christmas cakes, and Metrobank merchandise. Simply spend a minimum of P3,000 for Metrobank Card holders or P4,000 for any other payment method at participating restaurants, such as Ralph Wine, CBTL, Prologue, and more, to qualify for a chance to win.
Moreover, Mitsukoshi BGC‘s Holiday Gift Wrapping service is perfect for making your presents extra special. For purchases starting at P1,000, customers can enjoy free gift wrapping with exclusive MITSUKOSHI wrapping paper and bags from Isetan Mitsukoshi Japan. This thoughtful service, conducted by expertly trained staff, is available throughout the holiday season from December 1 to 25.
From December 20 to 22, 2024, children ages 5-11 are invited to participate in a Christmas Kids Event featuring sing-alongs, Christmas workshops, mini-games, and the chance to collect sweet treats from participating MITSUKOSHI tenants. The event promises to be a magical experience for the whole family. Registration is open for those who make a minimum purchase of P2,000.
In addition, the Live Music Performances and Santa Meet & Greet from December 23 to 25 will bring festive cheer to visitors with classic Japanese Christmas songs, live performances, and the chance to meet Santa Claus himself.
This holiday season marks the beginning of exciting new experiences at Mitsukoshi BGC. Looking ahead to March 2025, the opening of Ipponyari, a Japanese restaurant offering authentic dishes at reasonable prices, is expected.
Mitsukoshi BGC’s Christmas celebration is a heartfelt tribute bringing together the best Japanese traditions with local flair.
Authentic Japanese Living in the Heart of BGC
The Seasons Residences invites discerning homeowners to experience authentic Japanese living at its finest. The first tower, Haru, is now welcoming its residents with ongoing turnovers, while the fourth and final tower, Fuyu, is currently preselling. Offering spacious two- and three-bedroom high-zone units with panoramic views of the bustling Bonifacio Global City, Fuyu Tower promises a unique opportunity to own a piece of Japan right in the heart of Metro Manila.
The Seasons Residences and Mitsukoshi BGC elevate urban living with a seamless blend of culture, luxury, and convenience. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, indulge in authentic Japanese and international dining and retail, all while embracing timeless traditions and the festive charm of the holiday season.
For more information on Mitsukoshi BGC‘s holiday events and promotions, visit @mitsukoshi_bgc on Instagram and @MITSUKOSHIBGC on Facebook. Experience authentic Japanese living at The Seasons Residences and MITSUKOSHI BGC located within Grand Central Park – Federal Land’s master planned community in BGC. Learn more about The Seasons Residences on their website www.theseasonsresidences.ph, or visit their showroom located at 7th Avenue corner 34th Street, Grand Central Park, BGC. To book an exclusive preview, you may contact their hotline at 0919 076 2502. Exclusive offers await.
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