Celebrating Connection: COCOLON Indoor Hanami Event for Families with Severely Disabled Children

On April 29, 2025, COCOLON, operated by the non-profit organization EPO, organized its second annual indoor hanami event in Edogawa, Tokyo, continuously building on the success of the inaugural event the previous year. This gathering was specifically designed for families of children with severe physical and intellectual disabilities, offering a safe and accommodating environment to enjoy springtime festivities.

A Unique Indoor Experience

Typically, families with severely disabled children find it challenging to enjoy outings such as cherry blossom viewing due to various limitations like access to clean restrooms and reliable power sources, especially in unpredictable spring weather. COCOLON BASE served as the perfect venue, equipped with spacious diaper changing facilities and a comfortable setting free from weather concerns. Here, families could celebrate spring while enjoying a delicious Italian lunch prepared by a professional chef.

The event aimed to foster community among families, allowing them to connect, exchange experiences, and enjoy activities together. Parents had the opportunity to speak with chefs and food preparation specialists, while siblings played together, forming new friendships in a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Witnessing families gather, share laughter, and create memories aligned perfectly with the event's intent.

Event Overview

The indoor hanami allowed participants to indulge in the ultimate cherry blossom experience while enjoying a beautifully crafted meal. The lunch included options tailored for children requiring pureed or chopped foods, ensuring everyone could partake in the same culinary delights. The meals were designed with careful attention to not use thickeners, utilizing just the natural moisture of the ingredients instead.

Event Details:

- Date: April 29, 2025 (Tuesday, public holiday) 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Location: COCOLON BASE, 7-21-16 Shinozaki-cho, Edogawa, Tokyo, 2F
- Capacity: 3 families per time slot, total of 9 families
- Target Audience: Primarily families with severely disabled children
- Participation Fee:

Members: Adult ¥2000, Child ¥1000
General: Adult ¥5000, Child ¥2500

Culinary Highlights

The highlight of the event was the chef's exquisite hanami lunch, comprised of eight unique dishes that delighted participants. A notable feature was that children with difficulties swallowing, or those receiving tube feeding, could enjoy the exact same menu as adults, simply prepared in appropriate textures for their needs.

Chef, who has experience as a parent to a child with severe disabilities, contributed his knowledge of preparing food tailored to specific dietary requirements. Working alongside Miwa Ootaka from the NPO Yume no Me, they ensured the consistency of each dish was suitable for the children, taking special care of their unique needs.

Participant Feedback

The event was well-received, with attendees expressing their satisfaction:

- “My child finished everything! It was delicious!”
- “Many friends participated, and it was my first time attending. I had a fantastic time and was very satisfied!”
- “It’s rare to enjoy course meals in pureed form; I am grateful for this experience!”

Community Support

This event was made possible with the generous support of Taguchi Coffee, which provided beverages throughout the day. Taguchi Coffee has been serving the Edogawa community for over 20 years, offering high-quality coffee beans available for purchase both online and in their brick-and-mortar locations.

COCOLON continues to serve as a supportive community hub for families with children who have severe disabilities, aiming to enrich their lives with diverse programs and events.

The non-profit organization EPO, founded in 2016, aims to nurture and support these families through shared experiences and valuable connections, ensuring a fulfilling life despite challenging circumstances.

Please visit COCOLON’s official website for more information or inquiries regarding events and collaborations. Together, let's continue to promote understanding, joy, and interaction among families navigating the challenges of severe disabilities.

Watch event highlights here