okada Manila

As dusk descends over Manila Bay, the water jets at The Fountain in Okada Manila rise in carefully choreographed patterns, illuminated by thousands of LED lights. Guests stroll along the Crystal Corridor, pausing to watch the show unfold—a moment that captures the property’s blend of entertainment and hospitality. The scene is a reminder of how Okada Manila has established itself as a destination where thoughtful design meets guest-centered experiences.

Okada Manila has received a 2025 Global Recognition Award, an honor that reflects its consistent performance in the luxury hospitality sector. In a market where guest expectations continue to rise, Okada Manila distinguishes itself for its scale and attention to detail, holding the distinction of being the Philippines’ largest Forbes 5-star resort and offering the most five-star rooms in the country. This recognition highlights the property’s ability to deliver quality and comfort to many travelers.

Okada Manila’s approach is characterized by a balance of Japanese-inspired service and Filipino hospitality. Its architectural features and operational philosophy are designed to create a welcoming environment, while sustainability and community engagement remain central to its mission. Okada Manila’s commitment to these values has earned it a reputation for reliability and thoughtful guest care.

The Centerpiece of Entertainment City

The Fountain serves as a defining element of Okada Manila, covering 37,464 square meters and featuring advanced water, light, and sound technology. The combination of 739 water nozzles, 2,611 colored LED lights, and 23 speakers creates a unique multisensory experience in the region. The Fountain’s design allows for performances that integrate seamlessly with the water display, offering guests a distinct form of entertainment.

Staff at Okada Manila are trained in the principles of “omotenashi” and “magokoro,” aiming to anticipate guest needs with subtlety. For example, a guest’s casual mention of a tea preference at check-in led to a personalized selection and note awaiting them in their room. These gestures reflect a service culture that prioritizes observation and responsiveness over formality.

Technology supports the guest experience without overshadowing personal interaction. Smart room systems adjust environmental settings based on guest preferences, while a mobile app streamlines reservations and service requests. Behind the scenes, energy management systems contribute to the resort’s broader sustainability efforts, integrating efficiency into daily operations.

Accommodations and Guest Comfort

Okada Manila offers 1,001 rooms and suites, including the 1,400-square-meter Villa El Nido and the 565-square-meter Celebrity Suite. These accommodations feature amenities such as private pools, entertainment spaces, and views of Manila Bay. Italian marble bathrooms with heated floors, Rivolta Carmignani linens, and Roberto Cavalli amenities are standard in premium categories, reflecting a commitment to guest comfort.

The design approach draws from both local and international influences. Rooms incorporate colors and materials inspired by Manila Bay sunsets, while the gold façade echoes the surrounding landscape. The result is an environment that connects guests to the destination without relying on excess or ornamentation.

Guests frequently note the comfort and functionality of their accommodations. “We had a wonderful stay at Okada Manila. The room was beautiful—spacious and clean, and the amenities were top-notch. Our experience was comfortable and relaxing,” wrote one visitor.

Culinary Diversity and Responsible Practices

With 40 dining venues, Okada Manila offers a range of culinary options, from Japanese and Korean to Chinese and Italian. Restaurants like Kappou Imamura and Enbu focus on traditional techniques, while Red Spice and La Piazza provide diverse international menus. Each venue is designed to complement its cuisine with interiors that reflect cultural themes and enhance the dining experience.

The culinary team includes chefs with international experience, such as Executive Chef Josef Teuschler and Chef Yoshihiro Sugiyama. Their approach emphasizes quality and consistency, focusing on local ingredients where possible. Chef Gene del Prado’s philosophy—“Cooking from the heart; it is the gift that I can give in every menu that I create”—captures the team’s approach to hospitality through food.

Dining spaces are tailored to different occasions, from casual meals to formal gatherings. Enbu features red chochin lanterns for a Japanese ambiance, while Goryeo incorporates Korean art and innovative grilling technology. La Piazza offers both casual and formal settings, allowing guests to choose an environment that suits their preferences.

Commitment to Sustainability and Looking Ahead

Okada Manila’s sustainability program, Okada Green Heart, has been recognized with the Corporate Social Responsibility of the Year award at the 2025 Global Gaming Awards Asia-Pacific. The program includes recycling initiatives, energy efficiency measures, and responsible sourcing. In 2024, the resort recycled over 1.37 million plastic bottles and diverted more than 14,000 kilos of plastic packaging waste, demonstrating a practical approach to environmental responsibility.

The property’s sustainability credentials are further supported by its Forbes Verified Responsible Hospitality badge. Energy-saving systems, increased use of renewable energy, and efforts to reduce single-use plastics form part of a broader strategy to minimize the resort’s environmental impact. These measures are integrated into daily operations, supporting guest comfort and long-term goals.

Looking to the future, Okada Manila plans to expand its sustainability initiatives while maintaining its standards for guest service. “Through focused efforts, we reaffirm our commitment to climate action, social equity, and the well-being of future generations,” says Byron Yip, President and COO.

A 2025 Global Recognition Award highlights Okada Manila’s position as a leader in responsible luxury, offering travelers a destination where quality and care remain priorities.