The 'Machida Young People's Grand Project' - WAKUWAKU
In the city of Machida, Tokyo, a vibrant initiative called the 'Machida Young People's Grand Project - WAKUWAKU' is set to take place in March 2026, targeting the youth of the community. This initiative builds upon a successful three-year collaboration between children, young people, and the local government, known as the 'Machida Young People’s Project.' It has highlighted significant outcomes including youth participation and cooperation from local adults in urban development.
Passing the Baton
The 'WAKUWAKU' event represents the passing of the baton from the current generation of youth who have engaged in the project to new participants. This transition is encapsulated in the core concept of WAKUWAKU - W for youth (Wakamono), A for gathering (Atsumaru), K for building (Kizuku), and U for being born (Umare). This event aims to inspire action among young people, fostering a spirit of collaboration with the city government as they work together on urban development.
Event Overview
First Phase: Focus - Introduction of the Machida Young People’s Project Activities
A panel exhibition will showcase the progress made towards realizing the aspirations of the participating youth, informing the citizens about the project's initiatives.
- - Date: March 1 - March 27, 2026, 10 AM to 9 PM (according to the operating hours of Mina Machida)
- - Location: Mina Machida, 3rd Floor (4-1-17, Haramachida, Machida City)
- - Details: Display of achievement reports created by participating youths.
- - Collaboration: Mina Machida.
Second Phase: Burst - PR Event for the Machida Young People’s Project
By activating the young people’s project in downtown Machida, this event seeks to spark interest among citizens frequenting the station area.
- - Date: March 15, 2026 (Sunday), 11 AM to 4 PM
- - Location: Machida Terminal Plaza, Citizen's Square (3-1-4, Haramachida, Machida City)
- - Details:
1. Realization of youth initiatives (7 groups), including e-sports experience sessions, large sticker trading, and collaborative projects with children's committees.
2. Establishment of collaborative booths with various government departments (4 departments).
Third Phase: Beginning - Continuation of PR Events
To provide an opportunity for connection among adults and young people, this event will be coupled with the outdoor music festival 'MUSICA.' The previously supportive business divisions will collaborate with the young participants following the project plan, promoting unity in urban development.
- - Date: March 29, 2026 (Sunday), 10 AM to 5 PM
- - Location: Machida Yakushi Park, Shikisai no Mori West Garden (3105, Honmachida, Machida City)
- - Details:
1. Continued realization of previous plans from the Machida Young People’s Project (4 groups).
2. Outdoor music festival 'MUSICA.'
3. Collaborative booths with various city departments (9 departments).
Dialogue with the Mayor
The 'Young Dialogue with the Mayor' meeting allowed youths to report back on the outcomes of the 'Machida Young Project' and reflect on their experiences together with the mayor. This gathering emphasized the importance of connecting and passing on the engagement initiative to the next generation of children and youth, highlighting the continuous cycle of participation and collaboration.
About Machida City
Situated in the southern part of Tokyo, Machida has a population of approximately 430,000 residents. Only about 30 minutes by train from downtown, the city is known for its bustling shopping districts near Machida Station, complemented by historical shopping streets. Just a short distance away, nature abounds with countryside landscapes, parks filled with greenery, and farmland dedicated to local vegetables. Machida beautifully balances urban convenience with natural charm.
For more information about Machida City and its initiatives, visit: