SM City Santa Rosa Brings Japan to Laguna with “Konnichiwa, Japan” Cultural Showcase

SM City Santa Rosa brought the sights, sounds, and spirit of Japan to life through Konnichiwa, Japan, an immersive cultural showcase featuring sakura blooms, iconic photo spots, and enriching traditional experiences — launched in time for the celebration of Japan-Philippines Friendship Day.

Leading the ceremony were SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (farthest right), Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing Operations Ritzgerald Gonzales (farthest left), Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations Angel Toreja, Atty. Karen Agapay, Interim National President of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines, Mr. Matsuda Shigehiro, Director of the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) /First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, Laguna Vice Governor JM Carait, annd former Biñan City Councilor Hershey Tan Carait.

A highlight of the week-long celebration was the Hello! Japan cultural session, held in partnership with the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) and SM Supermalls, where students from Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Rosa Campus were given a unique opportunity to explore Japanese culture, customs, and education opportunities.

To complete their cultural journey, students also took part in a kimono-wearing demonstration and an origami workshop — gaining firsthand experience of the elegance of Japan’s traditional attire, the art and meaning behind the symbolic paper crane, and the cultural significance of bowing, a gesture of respect deeply rooted in Japanese etiquette.

The one-of-a-kind display — a first in Laguna — also became a vibrant playground for cosplayers and a haven of Instagram-worthy photo spots for digital-savvy visitors and content creators.

Throughout the event, mallgoers of all ages were invited to experience Japan in full bloom. From the stunning cherry blossom tunnel, Torii gate, and Hachiko statue, to the nostalgic Glico Man wall, lantern-lit walkways, and wishing walls — every corner of the mall was transformed into a slice of Tokyo’s springtime charm. Traditional performances, cultural installations, and kimono displays further brought the celebration to life.

This cultural initiative marks a meaningful collaboration between the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines and SM Supermalls, fostering deeper understanding and friendship between the Filipino and Japanese communities through shared cultural appreciation.

The Konnichiwa, Japan experience continues at SM City Santa Rosa until August 8 — but the celebration doesn’t end there. The exhibit will travel to SM City Dasmariñas from August 15 to September 6, giving Caviteños a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Japan.

As one of the country’s largest and most accessible lifestyle destinations, SM Supermalls serves as a hub for international cultural exchanges — providing a dynamic platform where communities can meaningfully engage, learn, and celebrate global traditions. Through partnerships like this, SM continues to bring the world closer to Filipino families, one cultural experience at a time.

Participating Malls