By Joy Agoylo
For many Filipinos, MITSUKOSHI BGC has become the closest thing to experiencing Japan without boarding a plane. Since opening its doors in 2023, the destination has introduced visitors to authentic Japanese retail, dining, and cultural traditions, creating a space where Japanese heritage and Filipino hospitality naturally come together.
This year, MITSUKOSHI BGC celebrates two meaningful milestones: its third anniversary and the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. Inspired by Tanabata, Japan’s beloved Star Festival, the months-long celebration pays tribute to the enduring friendship between the two countries through a vibrant lineup of cultural experiences, performances, workshops, and exclusive shopping events running from July to August.
(L-R) Chairman of the Philippine-Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shigeru Shimoda; President of Federal Land, Inc., Jose Mari Banzon; Chairman of Federal Land, Inc., Alfred Ty; Minister for Economic Affairs of the Embassy of Japan, Yokota Naobumi; General Manager of MITSUKOSHI BGC, Masahiko Yoshizawa; and Vice Chairman of Federal Land NRE Global, Inc. (FNG), Yusuke Hirano
The festivities officially began on July 16 with an anniversary celebration that brought the spirit of a traditional Japanese festival to Bonifacio Global City. Guests were welcomed by the powerful beats of taiko drums before witnessing a lively Mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine was carried in celebration of prosperity, community, and good fortune. LIV Dance Academy, the first Japanese-owned dance studio in BGC, also took the stage with a contemporary performance that blended modern energy with the day’s cultural festivities.
Adding a symbolic touch to the celebration was the unveiling of Mitsuko, MITSUKOSHI BGC‘s beloved Kokeshi doll mascot, dressed in a new outfit inspired by the colors of the Japanese and Philippine flags. The redesigned costume serves as a visual reminder of the friendship shared by the two nations over the past seven decades.
The celebration continues with one of the mall’s most anticipated attractions: the return of the Maguro Cutting Show at MITSUKOSHI FRESH today, July 18. Third-generation Japanese fish dealer and international seafood exporter Kosuke Nakaoka will demonstrate the precision behind one of Japan’s most respected culinary traditions by expertly carving a whole tuna caught just a day earlier in Japan and flown overnight to the Philippines to ensure exceptional freshness. Carrying on his family’s more than 80-year legacy in the seafood industry, Nakaoka’s presentation offers guests a rare opportunity to witness the craftsmanship behind Japanese cuisine.
Visitors can also take part in one of Tanabata’s most cherished traditions by writing wishes on colorful tanzaku cards and hanging them on bamboo trees placed throughout the mall. The simple yet meaningful custom, which symbolizes hope and good fortune, invites guests to become part of the celebration themselves.
Every Saturday from July 18 to August 15, eligible shoppers can experience Japanese culture firsthand through the Yukata Dressing Experience. Complete with hairstyling and light makeup, the activity allows guests to explore the mall dressed in traditional Japanese attire while creating memorable moments inspired by the season.
Creativity takes center stage throughout August with a series of interactive workshops that celebrate the artistry of both Japan and the Philippines. Co. Collectibles presents its Summer Paper Theater Activity on August 29, giving participants the chance to assemble intricate miniature scenes using Ensky’s signature Japanese papercraft kits. On August 30, Pottery Sessions invites guests to Ceramic Wishes: A Tanabata Pottery Experience, where they can paint ceramics inspired by Japanese and Filipino motifs or try their hand at the pottery wheel.
The cultural exchange extends to fashion and craftsmanship through specially curated pop-up stores. EDYA1929 showcases contemporary pieces created from vintage Japanese kimonos and obi belts, while Frankie General Store highlights garments made from woven Philippine textiles, celebrating local artisans through modern, sustainable design.
Shopping also comes with exciting rewards during the celebration. Through the JCB Tama-nage Game Activation, customers who present a minimum single-receipt purchase of PHP 2,500 can play the traditional Japanese-inspired ball toss game for a chance to win instant prizes and exclusive merchandise. Existing JCB cardholders receive an additional game turn, while newly approved cardholders are given a complimentary play. Every qualified participant is also automatically entered into the grand raffle, where prizes include a Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Console, Nintendo Switch™ 2, and Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Leather Kits.
More than a retail destination, MITSUKOSHI BGC continues to embody the vision behind The Seasons Residences, the Japanese-inspired development by Federal Land in partnership with Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. Connected directly to the mall, the residential community offers seamless access to authentic Japanese shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, bringing a distinct Japanese lifestyle into the heart of Bonifacio Global City.
Three years since welcoming its first visitors, MITSUKOSHI BGC has grown into more than a place to shop. It has become a destination where traditions are shared, cultures meet, and everyday experiences offer a glimpse of Japan. This year’s anniversary celebration reflects that vision, honoring a friendship that has connected Japan and the Philippines for 70 years while creating new memories for everyone who walks through its doors.
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