#Japan #Tokyo #Bunkyo Gakuin University #Muko Project #Intergenerational Exchange

Muko Retro Exploration: An Intergenerational Encounter

Bunkyo Gakuin University, under the leadership of President Masaru Fukui, is excited to announce its upcoming event titled 'Muko Retro Exploration: Autumn Mix Space', scheduled for November 8, 2025. This exhibition is designed by ten senior students from the Faculty of Human Studies, who are actively engaged in projects aimed at promoting intergenerational communication through local history. The event will take place at the Machilab Hongo, a collaborative research facility dedicated to solving social issues by bringing together academia, industry, and the local community.

The 'Muko Project', supervised by Assistant Professor Toyoshi Iwadate, embodies the spirit of community engagement as students strive to deepen the connection between Bunkyo Gakuin University and the residents of Mukogaoka. This initiative focuses on the rich history of the Mukogaoka area, particularly during Japan's post-war economic boom, using various materials from that era to foster understanding and engagement among different generations.

Event Highlights

The highlight of the exhibition will include presentation of historical resources related to the Mukogaoka area, including maps detailing local shops from the 1950s, photographs capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the campus at the time, and documents showcasing community activities. This carefully curated collection aims not only to educate but also to evoke nostalgia among attendees.

Among the special exhibits is the foot-pedal sewing machine used by the local tailor, Minoura Yofukuten, offering guests the unique opportunity to operate the machine themselves. This hands-on experience allows participants to connect with local history in a memorable way. Additionally, the venue features a reconstruction of the interior of Donki, a cherished oden restaurant that has been part of the community since 1887, where numerous social bonds have flourished over the years.

The exhibition is free, welcoming everyone to explore and engage with the community across age groups. Attendees will not only enjoy the displays but also interact in a space designed to nurture conversations and connections.

Student Perspectives

In their own words, the participating students from the Iwadate Seminar emphasize their vision of creating bridges between the communities around Mukogaoka. They express their hope that this event will serve as a catalyst for participants to connect with local history, leveraging the display of the 1950s foot-pedal sewing machine and photographs to inspire conversations about the past's impact on the present.

Event Details

• - Date: November 8, 2025
• - Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (tentative)
• - Location: Bunkyo Gakuin University, Machilab Hongo, 1-19-1 Mukogaoka, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo
• - Entry Fee: Free

Join us for this unique event where history and community converge to create a vibrant space for learning, sharing, and building relationships across generations. The 'Muko Retro Exploration' aims to be a welcoming place where everyone, young and old, can enjoy the rich tapestry of mutual understanding and friendship through the medium of our shared history. We look forward to seeing you there!