#Japan #Tokyo #Hiroo #Inclusive Education #Chitose Association

Chitose Friendship Association Launches 'Manmaru Chitose Hiroo'

On July 1, 2026, the Chitose Friendship Association, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, officially opened its new inclusive child development facility named 'Manmaru Chitose Hiroo', situated alongside the Hiroo Chitose Nursery, which began operations in April 2026. This marks the second inclusive base for the association after the opening of 'Manmaru Chitose Minami-Nagareyama' in June 2026.

The 'Manmaru' initiative is designed to provide a fresh support model that integrates childcare and child development assistance. It aims to holistically support children, families, and communities, responding to modern challenges such as the diversification of parenting needs in urban areas, the increasing demand for developmental support, and the isolation faced by many families.

To commemorate the opening, a community event called the 'Manmaru Festival in Hiroo' will be held on July 4, 2026. This event aims to raise awareness about the facility and foster community connections.

Background and Purpose

Recently, the importance of inclusive childcare, where all children grow together regardless of disabilities, has gained recognition. However, urban areas are witnessing a rise in families that find it hard to connect with support services or do not know where to seek help, leading to disjointed resources including nurseries, therapeutic services, and local assistance.

Over its 50 years of practice, Chitose Friendship Association has held onto the principle of:

• - Respecting the growth of each child.
• - Supporting families' concerns and anxieties.
• - Creating open community bases that connect with local resources.

The newly inaugurated 'Manmaru Chitose Hiroo' facility is distinctly positioned as an urban inclusive model of 'nursery × child development support', where children and families can naturally access the necessary support. By leveraging the diverse characteristics of Hiroo, the facility aims to serve as a nurturing environment for children from various cultural and developmental backgrounds to grow together.

Facility Overview

• - Name: Manmaru Chitose Hiroo
• - Address: 1-3-11 Hiroo, Shibuya, Tokyo (within Hiroo Chitose Nursery)
• - Phone: 03-6451-1600
• - Website: Chitose Association

Manmaru Festival Details

• - Event Name: Manmaru Festival in Hiroo
• - Date: July 4, 2026 (Saturday), 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
• - Venue: Manmaru Chitose Hiroo (3rd Floor of Hiroo Chitose Nursery)
• - Participation: No reservation required; open to everyone!
• - Activities:

- Super Ball Scooping
- Craft Corner
- Acorn Snack Station
- Souvenirs will be provided!
Note: There are no parking or bike storage facilities available; we recommend using public transportation to attend.

Comments from Director Yoshikazu Yamaguchi

The opening of 'Manmaru Chitose Hiroo' is a significant step in expanding the inclusive childcare that we've cherished at Chitose Friendship Association. For over 50 years, we've supported children's individualities and backgrounds while collaborating with families and communities. In recent years, the complexities surrounding urban child-rearing, such as family isolation and difficulty accessing support, have increased.

In this context, having an inclusive base where childcare and child development support can seamlessly connect and allow access to necessary resources is more important than ever. I hope this facility will become a place where children can grow while accepting each other's differences in the diverse area of Hiroo, and where parents can seek advice with peace of mind. Chitose Friendship Association will continue to work towards creating inclusive environments that look towards the future of children, in partnership with the community.

Contact for Inquiries

• - Institution: Chitose Friendship Association, Manmaru Chitose Hiroo
• - Phone: 03-6451-1600
• - Email: [email protected]

About Chitose Friendship Association

Chitose Friendship Association operates authorized nurseries, certified children’s centers, and child development support facilities in various regions, including Okayama and major cities like Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama, Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

Organization Overview

• - Name: Chitose Friendship Association
• - Location: 7-5, 2-bancho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Chairman: Yoshikazu Yamaguchi
• - Business Operations: Management of authorized nurseries and similar facilities
• - Established: 1970
• - Website: Chitose Association