The Exciting Ocean Research Festival Returns to Tokyo This Summer!

The Ocean Research Festival 2026: A Chance to Learn and Have Fun

The 2026 Ocean Research Festival, following last year's record attendance, is returning to Tokyo's Harajuku on July 25 and 26. Hosted by the NPO Green Bird, this event aims to create an engaging platform for children to learn about marine environmental issues, ecosystems, and related careers while having fun.

Understanding the Ocean's Challenges

Marine debris is a significant concern, with approximately 80% originating from urban areas, and plastic waste can linger in the ocean for centuries, contaminating the waters and harming various marine species. This troubling reality underscores the need for individuals to change their mindsets and actions to protect our oceans. The Ocean Research Festival was initiated in 2018 to provide children, who are the future stewards of our planet, with opportunities to engage with these critical issues through enjoyable activities.

In its eighth year, the festival will take place primarily in the three-story WITH HARAJUKU complex, located just minutes from Harajuku Station. The event is packed with diverse content designed to engage multiple senses, including immersive workshops, special guest talks, and collaborations with aquariums featuring exhibits on marine debris.

Event Details

- Date and Time: July 25 (Saturday) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and July 26 (Sunday) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Venue: 3rd Floor, WITH HARAJUKU
- Address: 1-14-30 Jingu-mae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001 (approximately 1 minute walk from Harajuku Station)
- Target Audience: Primarily for children from grades 1 to 6
- Entry Fee: Free (Note: The Ocean Experience Workshops require pre-registration with a fee of 1,000 yen per workshop)
- Instagram: @uminojiyukenkyu_fes

Exciting Activities Planned

1. Ocean Experience Workshops

Children will have the chance to learn about marine environmental issues while crafting projects for their summer research. This year, seven topics related to ocean pollution, ghost gear, and more will be covered. The popular workshop to create snow domes using microplastics has doubled its capacity due to high demand. Experienced instructors will lead engaging sessions to ensure a fun learning environment.