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A New Perspective on Community Welfare: Modoki's Natural Wine Bar

On November 8, a new addition to the Tama New Town area opened its doors—a Natural Wine Bar within the multifunctional facility Modoki, located in the Suwa shopping district. Managed by the non-profit organization Life is, this venture aims to blur the lines between everyday life and welfare, providing a place where community interaction can flourish while supporting those in need.

The Inspiration Behind Modoki

Modoki embodies the philosophy of being a space that is neither defined nor confined, promoting a sense of belonging for everyone. It will serve as a multifunctional hub, gradually introducing various services designed with a focus on welfare and community care. The Natural Wine Bar is the first step in this mission, where patrons can explore the world of natural wine while subtly engaging with the concepts of welfare through everyday interactions.

The goal is to create a welcoming environment for those seeking solitude yet craving social interaction, helping to redefine the landscape of the community by offering new experiences that intertwine welfare with regular social activities.

Discovering the Taste of Natural Wine

The Natural Wine Bar includes selections sourced from local establishments like Liquor Morisawa and Coco Farm Winery. Natural wines, crafted without the use of pesticides or additives, showcase the unique characteristics of the grapes and reflect the personality of the land and winemakers.

Liquid Morisawa is notable for its attentive curation of both domestic and international natural wines, emphasizing the cultural aspects of wine that connect people. Coco Farm Winery, established in the 1950s with the support of a local middle school’s special education program, focuses on minimal chemical intervention to preserve the wine’s authentic qualities. Their involvement with people with disabilities makes them a perfect partner for Modoki, enhancing the community spirit.

At Modoki, patrons can enjoy craft beer from Tama's renowned brewery, Bierernst, alongside meals prepared with local ingredients by collaborators such as Cacamamma and Ghost, ensuring the menu pays homage to regional flavors and creativity.

The Functions of Modoki

Modoki is envisioned as a dynamic space offering four essential functions:
1. Short-term Medical Care Stay – tonari+laugh: A facility allowing children and young adults with medical needs to enjoy a safe, temporary stay, providing their families with much-needed respite.
2. Community Dining Natural Wine Bar: This bar, managed by locals, offers a space for families caring for medically complex individuals to connect and relax away from the stresses of home, fostering a sense of belonging.
3. Private Library and Select Shop – F+: Accessible to everyone, this library allows community members to enjoy books, fostering connections organically through shared interests.
4. Rest Stop Accommodation: Designed to provide a welcoming retreat for individuals seeking a brief escape from everyday pressures, aiding emotional and physical well-being.

Modoki aims to create a harmonious cycle of support and empowerment within the community, allowing individuals to find their place without the defined boundaries commonly associated with welfare.

Celebration of Community Connections

The opening day of the Natural Wine Bar was festive, featuring local artists conducting workshops and performances from neighborhood kindergartens, drawing a crowd exceeding 300 attendees. This event signified the beginning of an inclusive journey for Tama's residents, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the new establishment.

Looking to the Future

In December, the team plans to unveil the private library that merges literature, art, and welfare, with additional phases launching through 2026 aimed at integrating various care functions tailored for families with specific medical needs. Modoki is on a path to redefine community interaction, creating a landscape where daily life, care, and culture converge seamlessly.

Facility Overview

• - Name: Modoki (モドキ) | Multifunctional Circular Facility
• - Location: 5-6-3-105/106 Suwa, Tama City, Tokyo
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Hours may vary, please check Instagram for updates)

For inquiries, contact: Life is (一般社団法人ライフイズ) - 042-400-0310 | [email protected]

Modoki aspires to be a beacon of hope and connection, redefining what it means to engage with welfare in a communal context, where every visit can spark new conversations and relationships.