#Japan #Tokyo #Gakken #Free Research #Kids Network

Overview of Free Research EXPO 2025

Set to take place on July 5-6, 2025, the Free Research EXPO aims to inspire elementary and middle school students along with their parents and teachers. Hosted by Gakken's educational portal, Gakken Kids Net, this interactive event promises a wealth of engaging activities to spark curiosity and creativity.

What is Free Research EXPO?

Free Research EXPO is a unique event designed specifically for young learners and their accompanying adults. It offers a hands-on learning experience that prepares kids for their summer research projects. With a variety of booths showcasing unique experiments and craft opportunities, alongside stage shows and workshops, children can discover research ideas while having fun. This year's event is the third iteration, having already welcomed over 5,000 attendees since its inception, and is expected to draw in over 1,500 participants this summer.

Parents have expressed their enthusiasm about the event: "I found great hints for my child's summer project!" and "The live experiments were exciting and educational!" Many attendees have shared how their perspective on summer research changed from daunting to delightful.

Highlights of EXPO 2025

The 2025 event will feature a diverse array of booths, each focusing on different themes that facilitate experiential learning. Notable exhibitors such as Panasonic Energy, Mizuho Financial Group, and Morinaga Confectionery will present hands-on activities. Participants can expect to learn about battery science through craft projects and engage in interactive workshops that cover essential financial literacy in a fun, game-like format.

Engaging Workshops and Booths

• - Discovering the Secrets of Batteries (by Panasonic Energy)
• - Create a Bow and Arrow with New Materials: Green Planet! (by Kaneka)
• - Learn Financial Literacy Through Quizzes (by Mizuho Financial Group)
• - Scientific Craft Challenges (by Seria)
• - The Journey of Chocolate (by Morinaga Confectionery)
• - Free Research Ideas Using Newspapers (by Asahi Elementary Newspaper)
• - Create a Page for Your Own Original Dictionary (by Gakken Dictionary Editorial Team)
• - Experiential Science Exhibitions (by Gakken Kids Net)
• - Quiz Rally Adventure (by Gakken Kids Net)
• - Shop from a Variety of Gakken Products for Your Research (by Gakken)

Note: Some workshops require prior online registration.

Spectacular Stage Programs featuring Special Guests

The event's stage program is always a favorite and will feature special guests who will lead captivating science shows and engaging discussions about research ideas. These offers not only present fun and interactive experiments but also equip children with valuable tips and tricks related to their summer projects. Attendees can also enjoy raffle prizes and look into book sales, ensuring that families can engage in enjoyable and educational activities throughout the day.

Schedule for Stage Programs

July 5 (Saturday)

• - 10:10-11:00: Science Show by Ikki Gohara - Enjoy experiments together!
• - 11:15-12:15: Tips on Drawing the Ultimate "Mutant King" Character
• - 12:30-13:20: Unveiling Japan's Lost Animal: Exploring the Mystery of the Japanese Wolf
• - 13:45-14:45: DIY Science Show - Build your rocket and UFO with paper cups!
• - 15:00-15:30: Mystery Science Magic Show - What, why, and how!

July 6 (Sunday)

• - 10:10-11:00: Discover the secrets of air! With the science of 'Asobunda Research Institute'
• - 11:15-12:15: The Allure of 'Yokai' and How to Draw Them
• - 12:30-13:30: Exciting DIY Science Show - rocket and UFO-making session!
• - 13:40-14:00: Participate in the much-loved Science Magic Show.

Event Details

Event Name: Gakken Kids Net Presents Free Research EXPO 2025
Date: July 5 (Sat) from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, July 6 (Sun) from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Gakken Headquarters Building, Shinagawa, Tokyo
Audience: Elementary & Junior High School Students and their Parents
Admission Fee: Free (Advance Web Registration Required)
Organizer: Gakken Kids Net
For more details and ticket reservations, please visit here.

Expanding Learning Beyond Regions

In a pioneering initiative this summer, the Gakken Kids Net will introduce a cross-regional learning program that invites students from Ishikawa Prefecture to interact across regional boundaries. This ambitious program aims to foster collaboration and broaden children’s perspectives by participating in diverse learning experiences. Students attending from Ishikawa will engage in enriching experiences through the EXPO and learn about the recent earthquake recovery efforts during a planned tour.

About Gakken Kids Net

Since its launch in 1996, Gakken Kids Net has evolved into a significant educational platform, initially derived from the renowned magazines for children, such as 'Science' and 'Learning.' The portal has consistently provided innovative content, including the 'SDGs' educational manga released in 2020 and has adapted to current demands by enriching learning experiences through the use of video and interactive content.