#Japan #Suginami #Sugiyama Festival #Kids Town #Dagashi

Sugiyama Kids Town: A Unique Experience for Children

In November 2025, the Sugiyama Festival will host a one-of-a-kind event in the form of "Sugiyama Kids Town," aimed at providing an engaging learning environment for children. Organized by the Dagashiyashiki Project, this initiative will take place at Momoi Harappa Park on the 8th and 9th, allowing kids to immerse themselves in various work experiences that reflect the vibrant community of Suginami Ward.

The Dagashiyashiki Project, founded by Rintaro Kuga, is dedicated to creating spaces that foster children's autonomy. During the festival, this organization will manage the kids' town, which will also feature booths like "Everyone's Dagashi Shop," "Carnival Games," and "Suginami Manju Honpo." The project aims to create an environment where children feel inspired to learn actively rather than merely follow instructions.

Learning Through Play

One of the standout attractions of Sugiyama Kids Town is the opportunity for children to learn about working in various professions through hands-on experiences. For just a 300 yen participation fee, kids can experience roles such as bank staff, radio booth operators, and dagashi shopkeepers, learning the fundamentals of how society functions.

Upon completing their tasks, children will receive the region's original currency, "Sugi," which can be spent at the dagashi shop or game booths within the town, effectively simulating the entire cycle of earning and spending in a playful context. This model promotes understanding of the social cycle of "working, earning, and spending" in a fun way.

Executing the Vision

As a crucial part of the organizing committee, the Dagashiyashiki Project has contributed expertise to ensure that this event is successful in promoting participation. The key question that guides the project is: how can we ensure children feel empowered to take initiative and express interest in what they want to do? This philosophy is core to the event's planning, making sure the experiences offered are not mere simulations but genuine opportunities for kids to think, choose, and act.

The project serves as a model for future initiatives aimed at expanding similar programs across other municipalities and organizations, demonstrating that fostering children's ability to navigate and thrive in society is essential.

Community Impact

Rintaro Kuga emphasizes that the project’s goal goes beyond job simulation: it aims to create a 'mini-society' tailored for children's needs and interests. The collaboration with local government and community organizations illustrates a shared commitment to empowering future generations. Through this event, children will connect with university students and community members, collaborating to shape their urban environment through participation.

The Dagashiyashiki Project operates its own community spaces, including dagashi shops in Suginami and other regions. These locations provide ongoing engagement opportunities for children, nurturing their curiosity and creative thinking. The foundation's operational expertise is evident in the planning and execution of the Sugiyama Kids Town, which incorporates elements learned from past events.

A Call to Action

The Sugiyama Kids Town event promises a dynamic weekend where both children and adults can experience the joy of building a community together. The festival invites families to partake in this exciting exploration of work, play, and social interaction. Whether it’s through earning Sugi currency or enjoying fun activities at the candy shop or game booths, everyone is sure to find something enjoyable.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Sugiyama Kids Town at Sugiyama Festival 2025
• - Date: November 8 (10:00–15:00) and November 9 (10:00–14:30)
• - Location: Momoi Harappa Park, Northwest K Zone
• - Entry Fee: Free, with a 300 yen fee for job experience sessions

Families are encouraged to join in this interactive weekend to embrace the excitement of community building and the value of hands-on learning experiences!

For more information, visit our official website at Dagashiyashiki Project or our official LINE account.