Countdown to a Unique Event
With only a week left until its inception, the 'Supported by WITH HARAJUKU Children's Music Cafeteria' will take place from July 24 to 26, 2026. This collaborative initiative brings together the Social Welfare Corporation Support 21, led by Shinzo Araragi, and the Pacific Philharmonia Tokyo, under the leadership of Tadamasa Tsukiura.
The 'Children's Music Cafeteria' is fundamentally a support project designed to provide disadvantaged children with opportunities to experience music and nutritious meals. It is specially aimed at those who have limited access to artistic experiences in their lives. By offering live performances by professional musicians along with complimentary light meals, the project hopes to bridge the cultural gap that sadly persists within society.
During this event, participants will enjoy classical music performances from musicians associated with Pacific Philharmonia Tokyo free of charge. Attendees can experience the nuances of live music up close, feeling the artists’ breath and passion in an intimate setting. Additionally, children who register online will receive meal vouchers that can be used at participating venues within the WITH HARAJUKU and Harajuku Quest complex.
For those interested, applications can be submitted through the following link:
Registration Form. A QR code is also available at the venue for convenience.
In preparation for this significant event, Support 21 has launched a dedicated website for the 'Children's Music Cafeteria.' For further details about the initiative and to stay updated, please check the special site:
Children's Music Cafeteria Website.
About the 'Children's Music Cafeteria'
The 'Children's Music Cafeteria' represents a new endeavor by Support 21 and aims to offer cultural and artistic support to children. Given the increasing awareness of the disparities in access to cultural and artistic experiences—mandated largely by the differences in children's upbringing—the organization seeks to address the so-called 'experience gap.' Drawing on over 34 years of experience in aiding refugees and those from foreign backgrounds towards self-sufficiency, Support 21 combines its expertise with the artistic capabilities of Pacific Philharmonia Tokyo.
This innovative approach delivers musical experiences and light meals to children who are economically disadvantaged or who come from challenging family environments, thus actively working towards reducing the cultural experience gap.
About Support 21
Support 21 is a social welfare organization committed to the self-sufficiency of foreign-rooted individuals residing in Japan, such as refugees, returnees from China, and Nikkei residents. Established in 1979 with the aim of supporting Indochinese refugees, and later becoming a registered social welfare corporation in 1992, the organization has made significant strides in aiding those in need within the domestic landscape.
About Pacific Philharmonia Tokyo
Founded in 1990, Pacific Philharmonia Tokyo operates under the artistic direction of Norichika Iimori, offering a diverse range of musical performances that span classical, opera, ballet, and even genres like anime and video game music. Since 2018, they have been holding regular concerts in Nerima City, focusing on outreach programs for children. The orchestra is deeply committed to cultivating an appreciation for music, ensuring that their harmonious essence resonates within local communities and educational institutions.
In conclusion, the 'Supported by WITH HARAJUKU Children's Music Cafeteria' is not just an event; it is a meaningful effort to nurture young minds and foster cultural appreciation through music and community engagement.