Come for Doraemon & Friends, stay for the full-on otaku holiday vibes
Feel Japan, Experience Japan. If you’ve been to Mitsukoshi BGC, you know this isn’t just some random slogan they slapped on their marketing materials. It’s the whole vibe of the place. From the second you step in, it feels like you’ve just wandered into a little corner of the Land of the Rising Sun. And this holiday season, Mitsukoshi is bringing even more of that magic with their Christmas campaign, “Doraemon: A Sparkling Adventure.”
It’s straight-up otaku overload.
Why Doraemon, though?
So, let’s talk about why they went all in with Doraemon for the holiday celebrations. I was curious too, but then I heard Mitsukoshi BGC’s GM, Yoji Kawaguchi, explain it at the recent tree lighting ceremony and campaign kickoff. His reasons? Spot on.
First, timelessness. Doraemon isn’t just some cartoon. He’s a legit icon. You could say he’s beloved across three generations, and it’s not just nostalgia—people still love him for the same reason: he’s hilarious, sweet, and kind of magical (don’t tell me you didn’t secretly want his gadgets growing up).
Second, he’s the heart of anime. Let’s face it, Doraemon’s practically Japan’s mascot. No disrespect to all the other anime and yuru chara legends, but if you had to pick one character to represent everything that’s amazing about Japanese pop culture, it would very likely be him. Quirky? Check. Creative? Totally. Full of heart? Always.
And third, optimism. In a world that often feels like it’s stuck on repeat, Doraemon’s about looking ahead. He doesn’t dwell on the past—he’s all about the future. And let’s be honest: that’s exactly the energy we could all use this season.
The holiday kickoff: Pure festive magic
So, how did it all kick off? On November 4, Mitsukoshi BGC hosted the “A Sparkling Holiday: Christmas Lighting Celebration,” which cranked up the festive energy—way, way up. It wasn’t just the lights (though the Christmas tree was spectacular, obviously). There was a live Christmas chorale—The Youth Harmonic Ensemble—adding to the overall excitement and cheer.
Mitsuko, the mall’s adorable kokeshi doll mascot, made her first appearance in a cozy little holiday outfit, surrounded by snow and looking extra kawaii. Doraemon & Friends took to the stage for a lively dance number, filling the air with their signature charisma and charm. Take note that the plush mascot suits were flown in from Japan, no less.
Between the performances, the lights, and the overall festive ambiance, I was already sold on the holiday cheer— it really did feel like the whole mall was buzzing with that holiday magic. And it was only the beginning.
Oh, and did I mention that Hiroshi Kondo and his wife Horan—Directors and Owners of Animation International Ltd. (the licensing agency for Doraemon in the Philippines)—flew in from Japan, in support of their beloved mascots? That was a nice touch and gave the event an extra layer of the warm fuzzy feels.
Meet & Greet with the gang
The launch event may have come and gone, but you can still meet Doraemon and the whole gang—Suneo, Takeshi, Nobita, and Shizuka. They’ll be doing Meet & Greets on select weekends through December, and if you’ve got kids (or just a soft spot for iconic anime characters), these are going to be a fun way to spend the afternoon.
Also, just a heads up—Santa Claus is making some special appearances, too. So if you want to get in the holiday spirit with the big guy himself, swing by on December 20, 21, or 25.
Now, let’s talk food
Because, what’s a holiday celebration without food? Mitsukoshi BGC nailed it on this front. If you haven’t tried Ipponyari yet (the Japanese restaurant opening at the mall this December), it’s time to put it on your list. The matcha lattes, hojicha lattes, and sushi are on point.
Also, Mitsukoshi FRESH has these Japanese Christmas hampers that are literally perfect for holiday gifting. We’re talking artisanal sweets, premium teas, chocolates, wines—basically everything that says “I put thought into this gift, but not too much thought because Mitsukoshi FRESH did it for me” (because we all know the holidays can get hectic and we need all the help we can get).
And for the ultimate holiday indulgence, don’t miss out on those premium Japanese strawberries (Ichigo) dropping in mid-December. Trust me, they’re as fancy as they sound, and they’ll make your Christmas just a little bit sweeter.
Shopping: you’ll want to take your time
Now let’s talk about shopping. Mitsukoshi BGC is like a hidden gem when it comes to finding that perfect gift. The shops are all thoughtfully curated with that Japanese attention to detail, and starting November 25, they’ll even wrap your presents in traditional Japanese style (so extra, but in the best way possible).
Plus, pop-up shops from brands like Phiten, Kizik, Gingersnaps, and Theo & Philo are also bringing a whole lot of holiday spirit with special deals. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just a little something for yourself, you’ll find it here.
Living the Japanese dream at The Seasons Residences
What if I told you you could live just an elevator ride away from all this holiday magic? The Seasons Residences, located right above Mitsukoshi BGC, is bringing Japanese-inspired living to BGC in a way that blends modern convenience with traditional design. The amenities are next-level—fitness centers, swimming pools, game rooms, yoga studios—and the whole vibe is perfect for anyone who wants to live close to the action while still having a peaceful, refined space to call home.
There you have it. Mitsukoshi BGC’s holiday celebrations are bringing Japan to the heart of BGC, and it’s the kind of festive fun you’re going to want to take in—all of it. Whether it’s the Doraemon-themed events, the food, the shopping, or just the overall youthful, dynamic otaku energy, this is one holiday celebration you’ll want to make time for.
Arigato gozaimasu, Mitsukoshi BGC!
#MitsukoshiBGC
#TreeLighting
#DoraemonAndFriends
#Doraemon
#EveryoneLovesDoraemon
#FeelJapanExperienceJapan
#FederalLand
#ExpatPH
#ExpatPhilippines
#TisTheSeason
