Giving gifts is a practice shared by many cultures, including Filipinos and the Japanese. It is both in our nature to be giving and the Japanese call it “Okurimono” or “present/gift.” Much attention goes into the gift, its symbolism and packaging. Utmost thoughtfulness in gift giving is prevalent in Japanese culture.

A dinner collaboration was recently hosted by Japan External Trade Organization in Manila with Ikomai Tochi’s chef, James Antolin, to launch the Okurimono Holiday Fair at Mitsukoshi Fresh in Bonifacio Global City. Guests were given the opportunity to sample dishes made with ingredients available at the newly opened Mitsukoshi Mall. Each dish was masterfully paired with a special drink made with shochu or sake, both available at Mitsukoshi Fresh.

Recently certified as “Japanese Food Supporter” store, Mitsukoshi Mall BGC will be the site of holiday festivities as JETRO hosts a two-week long Holiday Fair, which showcases some of the best exports from Japan. The fair presents premium sweets, traditional alcohol, gourmet cooking ingredients, and elevated ready-to-eat meals and snacks. It’s the perfect way to explore Japanese culture further through food.

If you’re looking for unique and thoughtful gifts, hop over at JETRO’s Okurimono Holiday Fair on 9 to 16 December. A one-stop-shop for all things Japanese-related, it’s the perfect way to immerse in and enjoy a gourmet experience while discovering the rich culinary traditions of Japan. Sourced from select prefectures, on offer are an assortment of premium products from delicate confections, noodle samplers to unique treats all beautifully packaged the Japanese way.

The numerous interactive stations are a multi-sensory delight. At the Noodle  Station, for instance, shoppers can enjoy a variety of Japanese noodle products and taste what it’s like to eat at one of Japan’s beloved hole-in-the-wall noodle shops. Visitors can also sample and taste Japan’s best alcoholic drinks at the Shochu and Sake District. Everyone is also welcome to try a few Japanese games for a chance to win a token at the fair.

Filipino and Japanese cultures are deeply rooted in community and family ties. What better way to show how much one cares this holiday season than in the expertly crafted creations from the Land of the Rising Sun at the JETRO Okurimono Holiday Fair at Mitsukoshi Mall in BGC.

Share your Okurimono Holiday Fair experience on social media using the hashtags: #JETROPH, #MitsukoshiBGC, and #JETROxMitsukoshiFresh. For more information, visit www.jetro.go.jp/philippines.