#Japan #Shinjuku #KADOKAWA #Takinogawa Gakuen #Sekai-Ju Cafe

KADOKAWA and Takinogawa Gakuen to Open Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery

The KADOKAWA Group, in collaboration with the special subsidiary KADOKAWA Craft and Takinogawa Gakuen, has announced the upcoming launch of the Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery in the Shinjuku area, set to open in late January 2026. This unique initiative aims to create a sustainable co-creation space where individuals with disabilities can thrive professionally and contribute to the community.

Background and Purpose of the Project

Promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce is one of the main objectives of the KADOKAWA Group. With the recent increase in the legal employment rate for individuals with disabilities, there have been strides in creating an inclusive environment across society. However, opportunities for disabled individuals to leverage their skills remain limited, necessitating the creation of more community connections.

This project seeks to break the traditional welfare framework, fostering an environment where those with disabilities can take pride in their work and pursue a model that balances business and social value. By merging the efforts of Shinjuku Ward’s employee promotion initiatives, Takinogawa Gakuen’s expertise in welfare provision, and KADOKAWA Craft’s operational knowledge, the Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery will serve as a space for collaboration between the local community, government, and businesses.

The Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery Concept

The Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery will utilize the experience and expertise developed by KADOKAWA Craft to create an inclusive workplace for individuals with disabilities. Located within a community building adjacent to the “Takinogawa Gakuen Tomoiro” group home, the cafe will be staffed primarily by individuals with disabilities, who will learn specialized skills in coffee roasting, barista techniques, and customer service.

Visitors to the first floor can enjoy meticulously selected specialty coffee brewed from high-quality beans, along with unique bagels developed through collaboration with the renowned Merry Bagel. Furthermore, the underground multipurpose space will feature a gallery that goes beyond just entertainment, showcasing “Art Brut” works and other artistic expressions.

Address and Opening Date

• - Name: Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery
• - Location: 1-7-26 Nakaochiai, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 161-0032
• - Opening Date: Late January 2026
• - Services: Coffee, bagel offerings, and gallery exhibitions

Future Outlook

Through this initiative, the Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery aims to ensure that the diverse talents of individuals with disabilities are fully showcased and celebrated. The name ‘Sekai-Ju’ reflects KADOKAWA’s commitment to creative culture and its vision of inclusivity, akin to a large tree that welcomes everyone, regardless of gender, age, or ability.

The project seeks to establish a space where individuals can come together, find healing, and gain inspiration. From conversations over coffee to the richness of art, the Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery aims to become a beloved and sustainable community hub that exemplifies a new model of proactive collaboration.

Messages from the Leaders

Kenichi Yoshizumi, Mayor of Shinjuku Ward

“I hope the Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery becomes a place where daily interactions with those with disabilities become commonplace, creating a foundation for community engagement.”

Masayuki Tani, Chairman of Takinogawa Gakuen

“We aim to create new spaces utilizing our long-standing experience in welfare for those with intellectual disabilities, allowing their talents to shine in various forms of art showcased in our gallery.”

Satoshi Kawada, CEO of KADOKAWA Craft

“The Sekai-Ju Cafe & Gallery represents a unique convergence of our coffee culture and the daily lives of local residents. Our team, composed mainly of individuals with disabilities, is committed to delivering quality and showcasing their craftsmanship.”

About Takinogawa Gakuen

Founded in 1891, Takinogawa Gakuen is Japan's first social welfare facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It has a rich history of leading the way in welfare services for over 130 years, offering support across various age groups.

For more information about Takinogawa Gakuen, visit here.

About KADOKAWA Craft

KADOKAWA Craft is a special subsidiary of KADOKAWA, established to promote flexible working conditions while prioritizing the well-being of its employees, particularly those with disabilities.

Learn more about KADOKAWA Craft here.

About KADOKAWA

KADOKAWA is a comprehensive entertainment company involved in various sectors, including publishing, anime, and online services, focusing on maximizing the value of intellectual property through technology.

For details, visit KADOKAWA.