Connecting Children with Nature: The Engaging Left Over Experience at Mori Character LABO

The excitement is building as the second edition of the 'Mori Character×LABO' program is set to take place on March 28, 2026, at the historic Kudan House in Tokyo. Developed through collaboration between Toho Leo Co., Ltd. and the University of Tokyo's General Education Research Center, this unique program aims to inspire elementary school children (grades 1-3) to explore and connect with natural materials through hands-on experiences.

A Focus on Sustainable Development Education

Toho Leo, a company dedicated to urban greening and community development based in Osaka, is committed to merging professional expertise with the cultivation of the next generation. The new program, 'Mori Character×LABO,' showcases an educational approach known as Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). This initiative was born from research and collaborative efforts between Toho Leo and the University of Tokyo, paving the way for innovative learning experiences.

The inaugural event of 'Mori Character×LABO' took place in the summer of 2025 and received an overwhelming response, gathering over 100 applications nationwide. In this five-day program, children had the chance to engage with landscape architects and arborists, leading to the creation of 43 unique 'Mori Characters' – original characters inspired by nature, which went on to be transformed into merchandise and received significant acclaim. The learning journey included tools like the ESD ability radar chart to visualize children's progress and growth.

A One-Day Intensive ESD Program

For its next chapter, the second edition has been restructured into a one-day intensive program. On March 28, 2026, participants will delve deep into the essence of urban greening, traditional plastering skills, and the innate qualities of natural materials. With an effective blend of traditional craftsmanship and academic insights, children will experience firsthand how these elements shape urban spaces.

Plastering, which dates back over a millennium, involves manipulating natural materials like soil, sand, and lime. This enduring Japanese tradition is not merely about technique; it encompasses an understanding of environmental dialogues – including weather, humidity, and the interaction of nature with humanity's constructed spaces. This foundational knowledge forms the backbone of the upcoming program, where participants will engage with established plastering artisans to better understand this practical wisdom.

Through tactile experiences and activities, children will learn about living in harmony with nature not just as a concept but as a physical realization of their everyday lives. The goal is not to create perfect objects, but to encourage children to investigate their relationship with the natural world and rethink how they envision their future lifestyles.

Bridging to GREENG × EXPO 2027

The 'Mori Character×LABO' aligns with the vision for the upcoming GREENG × EXPO 2027, to be held in Yokohama. Toho Leo plans to reuse materials and equipment from the Panasonic Group Pavilion showcased at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 in their own pavilion at GREENG × EXPO 2027. This method of learning preserves values and intentions, creating a seamless transition into building a sustainable future.

Experiencing this program will serve as a foundation for children to engage with the theme 'Scenery of the Future for Happiness' showcased at GREENG × EXPO 2027. By interacting with natural materials and architectural elements, they will learn to see the future as something they can actively create.

Event Summary

- Program Name: Mori Character×LABO - Creating Gentle Living Spaces for the Future 100 Years Later
- Date: March 28, 2026 (Saturday)
- Venue: Kudan House, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Target Audience: Grades 1-3 (Pre-selection process) - further details will be shared in mid-January 2026.
- Participation Conditions: Parent-child participation (one child plus one parent)
- Capacity: 15 groups (30 participants)
- Participation Fee: 8,000 yen per parent-child pair

How to Apply

To apply, participants must obtain a 'Pre-selection Application Ticket' through the provided link. More information about the pre-selection process will follow upon application.

Main Organizer: Toho Leo Co., Ltd. and University of Tokyo General Education Research Center

Collaborating Experts

- Associate Center Director, Professor Kayoko Kurita (University of Tokyo);
- Emeritus Professor Toshiyuki Ameno (University of Tokyo);
- Doctoral Candidate Misaki Funabiki at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School.

Professional plastering artisans will also join to offer insights into their craft, making the program relatable and engaging for children.

Stay tuned for more updates on the details of the program which will be unveiled as they are finalized.

For more information on past events and future initiatives, you can visit the official pages: