Japan In Manila: Shangri-La Plaza Mall Holds Month-Long Japanese Festival

So many things had happened since I last went to Japan. During the first 2 months of "Japan separation anxiety", my friends and I created the @japaninmanila Instagram account to post our food, fashion, and other Japan related sightings while here in the Metro. On the 5th month, I started binge watching Terrace House, Good Morning Call, Atelier, and other Japanese shows and dramas on Netflix! By the 6th month, I've already moved on to Korea and Kdramas.

But even though I've been posting more Korean content now, there's a special place in my heart for Japan. Every memory from this travel still gives me the feeling of longing and chills. I miss it! Imagine my excitement when I saw photos of the orange torii gates on display at the Shangri-La Plaza Mall! It's like being in Kyoto all over again!

Last Saturday, I went to Shang with my friends Sarah, Ashley, and Ava to explore the mall's month long celebration of the Filipino-Japanese friendship. 

Some of the activities in stored for us include: Japanese exhibits, bento workshop, Japanese food photography, performances, sashimi cutting demo, origami and paper fan painting workshops, and a Japanese themed lifestyle fair. If I had more time, I would have participated in all the activities!! 

My favorite though is the Eiga Sai, or the Japanese Film Festival, which they had at the Shang Cineplex with tickets for only Php 100! We were able to watch "Anthem of the Heart", an anime with unusual characters and unexpected ending.. I loved it! 

If you're missing the land of the rising sun, or want to have a taste of it here in Manila, visit Shangri-La Plaza Mall for the whole month of July! For more information on movie schedules, exhibits, and workshops, like them on Facebook, and Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial. Arigato gozaimashita Shangrila Mall for this wonderful event!