Mitsukoshi BGC brings Japanese concept of “Okurimono” this Christmas season

What do Filipinos and Japanese have in common? They both love giving gifts, turning such a cherished activity almost into an art form. In keeping with the Christmas season, Mitsukoshi BGC introduces a series of events that celebrate the joy of giving, sharing and togetherness.

Embracing the Japanese concept of “Okurimono,” meaning “Gift,” Mitsukoshi BGC aims to offer an immersive experience that connects Filipino families to the warmth of Japanese culture while bringing a fresh and unique holiday celebration for all.

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 the premier mall’s curated retail and dining options, creating a seamless blend of world-class living and cultural experiences.

Federal Land Inc., Commercial Business Group Head, Charmaine Bauzon; Chairman of Federal Land Inc., Alfred Ty; MITSUKOSHI BGC’s General Manager, Yoji Kawaguchi; President of Mitsukoshi Federal Retail Inc., Tetsuo Koike and Mitsukoshi BGC’s Senior Marketing and Customer service “Omotenashi” Manager, Yuriko Takatori. 
Mitsukoshi BGC’s holiday magic begins with the unveiling of Mitsuko, the chic and playful Kokeshi doll. 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 Christmas season, Mitsukoshi BGC invites everyone to unwrap the most wonderful gift it has to offer: A cultural journey full of style, tradition and meaningful 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.

Kokeshi doll’s holiday debut

Mitsukoshi BGC’s holiday magic begins with the unveiling of Mitsuko, the chic and playful Kokeshi doll that 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, will bring 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. Promotion runs from Nov. 20 to 30, 2024.

By placing the symbol of Mitsukoshi, which a lion, at the entrance, people behind the mall aim to have all the customers feel the spirit of hospitality or “omotenashi”, which the Japanese people are known for.

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.

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 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11p.m., and Saturday, Sunday and holidays 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Guests are invited to enjoy delectable dishes from the diverse range of restaurants housed within Mitsukoshi, with incredible promotions that make celebrating the holidays with family and friends even more special.

Federal Land Inc.,Group Marketing Head, Cathy Bengzon; Lucerne’s Tessie Yao; Lucerne Group Managing Director, Ivan Yao; Federal Land Inc., Commercial Business Group Head, Charmaine Bauzon and Federal Retail Holdings Inc. Mae Jeanjaquet
President of Mitsukoshi Federal Retail Inc., Tetsuo Koike; Federal Land Inc., Commercial Business Group Head, Charmaine Bauzon; Mitsukoshi BGC’s General Manager, Yoji Kawaguchi and Mitsukoshi BGC’s Senior Marketing and Customer service “Omotenashi” Manager, Yuriko Takatori. 

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 service, conducted by expertly trained staff, is available throughout the holiday season from December 1 to 25.

The Kagami Biraki ceremony led by Chairman of Federal Land Inc., Alfred Ty; Mitsukoshi BGC’s General Manager, Yoji Kawaguchi and Federal Land Inc., Commercial Business Group Head, Charmaine Bauzon

Cultural Christmas celebration

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.

From Dec. 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 and great 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, Mitsukoshi is excited to announce the opening of Ipponyari, a Japanese restaurant offering authentic dishes at reasonable prices.

Mitsukoshi BGC’s Christmas celebration is a heartfelt tribute bringing together the best Japanese traditions with local flair.

The talented singers of UST Conservatory of Music and FEU, Vocalismo, serenaded the crowd with their rendition of classic and Japanese Christmas carols
Glaiza de Castro by the Mitsukoshi BGC tree

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.