MITSUKOSHI BGC is celebrating its third anniversary alongside the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines with a series of cultural events, shopping promotions, workshops, and immersive experiences inspired by Tanabata, Japan’s beloved Star Festival.

Running from July to August, the celebration highlights the enduring friendship between the two nations while reinforcing MITSUKOSHI BGC’s position as a destination where authentic Japanese culture, retail, and dining meet Filipino hospitality in Bonifacio Global City.

A milestone celebration

The festivities officially began on July 16 with a special anniversary program featuring traditional Japanese performances.

Guests were welcomed by an energetic taiko drum performance, followed by a lively Mikoshi procession, where performers carried a portable shrine in celebration of community, prosperity, and good fortune.

Adding a contemporary touch to the celebration, LIV Dance Academy, the first Japanese-owned dance studio in Bonifacio Global City, delivered a special performance for attendees.

The event also introduced a new look for Mitsuko, MITSUKOSHI BGC’s signature Kokeshi doll mascot, dressed in colors inspired by the Japanese and Philippine flags to commemorate both anniversaries.

Experience Japanese traditions

One of the highlights of the celebration is the return of the Maguro Cutting Show on July 18 at MITSUKOSHI FRESH.

The event features Kosuke Nakaoka, a third-generation Japanese fish dealer and international seafood exporter, demonstrating the traditional art of carving an entire tuna that was caught in Japan just a day earlier and flown overnight to the Philippines.

Visitors can also participate in the traditional Tanabata custom by writing wishes on colorful tanzaku cards and hanging them on bamboo trees displayed throughout the mall.

Meanwhile, the popular Yukata Dressing Experience returns every Saturday from July 18 to August 15, allowing eligible shoppers to wear traditional Japanese attire complete with hairstyling and light makeup.

Workshops and cultural pop-ups

Throughout August, MITSUKOSHI BGC will host interactive workshops celebrating Japanese and Filipino craftsmanship.

On August 29, Co. Collectibles will conduct the Summer Paper Theater Activity, where participants can assemble intricate Japanese papercraft scenes using Ensky’s signature kits.

The following day, Pottery Sessions will present Ceramic Wishes: A Tanabata Pottery Experience, inviting guests to paint ceramic pieces inspired by Japanese and Filipino motifs or try pottery wheel sessions.

Visitors can also browse curated pop-up stores featuring sustainable fashion and artisanal craftsmanship.

EDYA1929 will showcase contemporary apparel made from vintage Japanese kimonos and obi belts, while Frankie General Store will present garments crafted from traditional Philippine woven textiles.

Shop and win exclusive prizes

The anniversary celebration also offers shoppers a chance to win exclusive prizes through the JCB Tama-nage Game Activation.

Customers who present a minimum single-receipt purchase of ₱2,500 can play the traditional Japanese-inspired ball toss game for instant prizes and exclusive merchandise.

Existing JCB cardholders receive an additional game turn, while newly approved JCB customers are entitled to a complimentary play.

Qualified participants will also earn entries to the grand raffle featuring prizes such as a Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Console, Nintendo Switch 2, and Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Leather Kits.

Bringing Japan closer to Filipinos

Since opening in 2023, MITSUKOSHI BGC has introduced authentic Japanese shopping, dining, and cultural experiences to Metro Manila.

Located within the podium of The Seasons Residences, the mall is part of a Japanese-inspired mixed-use development by Federal Land, Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd., and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd.

The development combines Japanese design principles with modern urban living, giving residents direct access to Japanese retail, culinary experiences, and cultural activities in the heart of Bonifacio Global City.