#Japan #Agano #Agano City #Harapeko #Gozuccho

Agano City's Innovative Cafe Collaboration

On March 3rd, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, the "Harapeko & Gozuccho Cafe" event will take place at the Michi no Eki Agano in Niigata Prefecture. This initiative is a pioneering collaboration between the Niigata Tokimeki Consumer Cooperative and Agano City's Senior Welfare Division, aiming to create a safe space for multigenerational interaction. Combining a play area for young children and a cafe environment for individuals experiencing dementia, this event sets out to build an inclusive community.

A Welcoming Environment for All

The event invites parents with preschool-aged children to participate in a variety of activities designed to foster connections among participants. In the playroom, local volunteers and staff will read stories using picture books and large illustrated books. Additionally, the panel theater will engage children as they actively participate by singing and moving with the story. Parents can also enjoy fun handplay activities alongside their children, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone involved.

Adjacent to the play area, a dedicated eating space will provide a cozy environment for individuals with dementia, their families, and local residents to enjoy drinks while observing the children at play. This setting fosters open conversations, allowing attendees to share their worries and seek advice regarding dementia. Here, the boundaries between 'givers' and 'receivers' of support dissolve as everyone comes together as their authentic selves to share time and space.

A Unique Collaboration

This event marks the first joint effort between Niigata Tokimeki and Agano City’s Senior Welfare Division, each of which regularly hosts similar initiatives. The "Harapeko" play space occurs every first Tuesday of the month at Michi no Eki Agano, welcoming families who eagerly anticipate these engaging gatherings. On the other hand, the "Gozuccho Cafe" gathers individuals with dementia, their families, and community members approximately four times a year across various locations in Agano City. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy arts and crafts or physical activities while forming supportive relationships within the community that aim to enhance the quality of life for those affected by dementia.

Building a Stronger Community

By hosting these two events concurrently, the organizers aspire to create a more inclusive atmosphere that transcends the focus of just supporting childcare and dementia. Participants of all ages are encouraged to connect in diverse ways, cultivating a shared space that caters to the unique experiences of each individual. As such, this initiative stands as a testament to the value of establishing a community that nurtures relationships among citizens, regardless of age or circumstance.

Event Details

• - Date: March 3, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
• - Venue: Michi no Eki Agano, 553-2 Kubokawahara, Agano City, Niigata Prefecture
• - Activities: Harapeko story-telling, handplay, panel theater, and reading sessions, along with Gozuccho Cafe for socializing and community consultation.
• - Fee: Free of charge
• - Reservation: No prior registration necessary

Niigata Tokimeki continues to strive for a community where individuals of all ages can connect freely, fostering an environment where everyone can be themselves.

For more information about this event and other initiatives, visit Niigata Tokimeki's official website.