BIZ BUZZ: Bringing Japan’s leisure culture to PH
Imagine unwinding in a steaming Japanese onsen after a long day of shopping or belting out your favorite tunes in a state-of-the-art karaoke lounge, all without stepping outside the mall.
This vision could soon become a reality as Japan’s Koshidaka Holdings Co., Ltd. sets its sights on the Philippines, bringing its signature blend of leisure and entertainment to local shores.
Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque revealed that the company is exploring opportunities to develop hot spring facilities, karaoke hubs and women-focused gyms across the country.
Drawn by the Philippines’ booming population of 115 million and its well-known love for karaoke, Koshidaka sees a promising market for its offerings.
“They also want to open a gym that’s exclusively for women, nationwide. And they’re particularly interested in bringing Japanese onsen experiences to malls and other key locations,” Roque said.
“They’re actually coming in the first quarter this year to explore potential sites,” she added.
As part of its strategic expansion into Southeast Asia, Koshidaka’s board approved the establishment of a subsidiary in the Philippines during a meeting on Feb. 18.
The Department of Trade and Industry said that the firm has committed P2.5 billion in investments, with plans to expand to 30 locations initially and ultimately reach 100 nationwide.
If all goes as planned, Filipinos could soon enjoy the ultimate leisure trifecta—karaoke, rejuvenating onsens and women-focused fitness centers—all under one roof.
