Relations between Japan and the kingdoms in the Philippines date back to the pre-colonial period of Filipino history.
It was a long, colorful, storied journey for both countries which eventually led to the two countries formalizing diplomatic relations in 1956.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
Centuries later, it is a bond that is stronger than ever, "ties that have gone from strength to strength," as the Philippine Embassy in Japan Chargé d’Affaires Robespierre Bolivar said.
A testament to this is a piece of Japan in the Philippines, right in the heart of the metro, The Seasons Residences in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
Indeed, The Seasons Residences is concrete proof of the strong ties between Japan and the Philippines because it is a product of a landmark partnership between Filipino-owned mammoth conglomerate GT Capital Holdings' Federal Land Inc. and Japanese giants Nomura Real Estate Development Co. Ltd. and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd.
A showcase of Japanese tradition of excellence
Born out of this landmark partnership, The Seasons Residences showcases Japan's technology and design and Filipino hospitality.
It is a gem in itself; showcasing both functionality and elegant simplicity, as what the Japanese are known for.
Its beauty starts from the outside—its hemp-patterned-adorned façade, designed by Japanese designers Torafu Architects and Asao Tokolo, speaks of divine rituals and Japan's strength and durability. Hemp has long been grown in Japan and is part of its culture since ancient times— in clothing, embroidery, and sacred traditions—from mixing tea to new year's cleansing rituals.
Two-Bedroom Unit (artist’s perspective)
Inside, innovative Japanese technology is optimized to ensure safety and security. All four towers are equipped with the sophisticated Viscoelastic Coupling Dampers technology that can withstand strong winds and earthquakes, common to the Philippines and Japan.
The development also has unique storage solutions, like kitchen floor storage, shoe cabinet, and bedroom closets, are installed to maximize space and keep everything organized. Every unit will have a sunken slab for a below-floor drainage system in the bathroom and kitchen to allow easier pipe maintenance and water leakage protection, as well as eco-friendly solutions such as Japanese-branded shower toilets.
Four seasons of Japan
The Season Residences offers four residential towers—Haru (Spring), Natsu (Summer), Aki (Autumn), and Fuyu (Winter)—ranging from 41 to 51 floors high with an amenity floor patterned after the four seasons of Japan.
There is a modern gym and landscaped gardens that evoke the fresh beginnings of spring, while the swimming pool and karaoke room bring to mind the fun of summer.
Wellness Center Lobby (artist’s perspective)
Take some autumn inspiration in the music room, reading lounge, and business center are provided to accommodate the creativity Autumn inspires. Lastly, The Seasons Residences offers a wellness lounge reminiscent of Japanese winters.
Another unique amenity offering in The Seasons Residences is The Guest House. Patterned after traditional Japanese homes, The Guest House is a four-bedroom space available for lease to relatives and friends of residents, so they too can experience Japanese living at The Seasons Residences.
Business Center (artist’s perspective)
To put it simply, The Seasons Residences allows Filipinos to experience how it is to live and enjoy Japanese life.
Relishing the Japanese way of life
Indeed, with The Seasons Residences, more Filipinos can relish the Japanese way of life.
Proponents are set to launch Fuyu Tower this year, the fourth and final tower of the development in response to the growing demand of homebuyers and investors looking for units with distinctly Japanese features.
“Investors continue to look for properties that would meet their needs in the long-term, from proximity, to commercial areas and green spaces, to access to lifestyle experiences. These factors are crucial as the country moves forward into a post-pandemic future. The demand for well-built and well-planned spaces is realized more these days. And this is what we offer with The Seasons Residences,” said Federal Land, Inc. Sales Group Head Margarita Saenz-Resurreccion.
MITSUKOSHI BGC
At the podium of The Seasons Residences is the country's first MITSUKOSHI, which is a paradise for everyone—Japanophiles or not.
MITSUKOSHI BGC, a four-story mall transports visitors to Japanese shopping scene with its Japanese design elements in a casual but elegant setting. There's a well-curated selection of shops and the Japanese way of polite service known as Omotenashi is felt everywhere in the mall.
At the basement level is the signature depachika, a haven of top-shelf Japanese food and related products.
In celebration of Japan’s Sakura season this upcoming March, MITSUKOSHI BGC will hold a three-week long Japan Fair that will introduce Japanese culture and cuisine to the Filipino market, allowing them to see that the celebration is more than just the beautiful cherry blossoms.
Deeply inspired by the Japanese concept of “Tsunagaru,” which means to be united and connected with each other, the Japan Fair will be a space where different customers, from families, friends, couples, children, and more can enjoy each other’s company through different customer engagement activities.
Guests can have a literal taste of the experience, with cherry blossom decorations and special Sakura-flavored sweets from MITSUKOSHI FRESH, the mall’s own signature supermarket. They will offer Sakura-flavored mochi, Hanami Dango—a typical Japanese street food usually eaten during Hanami (viewing of cherry blossoms), and Sakura Wagashi (Nerikiri)—a traditional Japanese confectionary used at tea ceremonies.
There are sure to be many activities and treats to enjoy at the upcoming Japan Fair this March 8 to 28, 2023.
A master planned community
The Seasons Residences is part of the master-planned community located in Taguig city's most prestigious address.
Indeed, the upscale residential development rises within Grand Central Park, Federal Land’s master-planned community inspired by the dynamic New York.
Jogging Path at the amenity floor (artist’s perspective)
Anchored by Grand Hyatt Manila, Grand Central Park presents distinct spaces for living, working, shopping, and dining dedicated to providing a well-balanced lifestyle. It is home to the first Grand Hyatt branded residences in Southeast Asia, the country’s first MITSUKOSHI, as well as a variety of contemporary homes patterned after the Manhattan lifestyle.
Bonifacio Global City is also Metro Manila’s premier financial and lifestyle district and is the home of many world-class institutions.
In all, Seasons Residences marries Filipino hospitality and a sense of community with the Japanese tradition of excellence and innovation.
But it doesn't end here.
Federal Land has also partnered with Nomura Real Estate Development Co. Ltd (NRE) for a new and bigger joint venture, Federal Land NRE Global Inc. or FNG.
FNG will introduce to the Philippine market townships with sustainable growth, starting with an initial project in four areas in Metro Manila, Cavite, and Cebu.
Own a piece of Japan at the heart of BGC. To know more about The Seasons Residences, visit www.federallanph.info/theseasonsresidences or call +63 917 323 3142 to schedule a private viewing at the showroom located at 7th Avenue corner 34th Street, Grand Central Park, BGC.Anchored by Grand Hyatt Manila, Grand Central Park presents distinct spaces for living, working, shopping, and dining dedicated to providing a well-balanced lifestyle. It is home to the first Grand Hyatt branded residences in Southeast Asia, the country’s first MITSUKOSHI, as well as a variety of contemporary homes patterned after the Manhattan lifestyle.