Tokyu Real Estate and Community Work to Bridge Experience Gap for Children in Tokyo

Bridging the Experience Gap for Children

In a bold move to tackle the pressing issue of experience disparities for children, Tokyu Real Estate Co., Ltd. and Tokyu Community Corp. have partnered with Suntory Holdings Inc. and NPO Florence to join the initiative known as the Kids Adventure Bank. This platform is focused on ensuring that children from families facing various challenges can access valuable experiences that would otherwise be out of reach.

The Kids Adventure Bank enables these families to freely choose and apply for experience content offered for free by participating businesses. It aims to foster the growth of children’s minds through enjoyable and educational activities, aligning perfectly with the vision of creating a future where everyone can shine in their own way.

Starting in August 2024, the exciting offerings for the summer will include engaging experiences specifically designed to create unforgettable memories for families. Tokyu Real Estate will recreate the world of Netflix’s global sensation, Squid Game, in an exciting and immersive event called Shibuya Real Squid Game. This interactive gaming experience will be accessible to participants of all ages. Meanwhile, Tokyu Community will host special planetarium screenings at the popular Cosmo Planetarium Shibuya, known for its expert-led commentary on the wonders of the universe.

Shibuya Real Squid Game and Planetarium Experience

Tokyu Real Estate is committed to enhancing the appeal of the Shibuya area, which is renowned worldwide as a vibrant destination. The Shibuya Fukurace complex, where these experiences will take place, serves as a bustling gateway that attracts visitors from both Japan and abroad. To date, it has hosted numerous cultural events, including immersive exhibitions utilizing digital technology and showcases by global photographers.

Visitors to the Shibuya Real Squid Game will find a venue that faithfully recreates the fictional universe of Squid Game. Participants must have their faces scanned to register as players, after which they can engage in six thrilling games reminiscent of those from the show. This summer promises a unique chance for families to enjoy the suspense and excitement of a real-life gaming experience. Offering a precious opportunity to slip away from mundane daily routines, the program encourages families to bond and create lasting summer memories.

Additionally, the choice of Cosmo Planetarium Shibuya as an experiential space stems from a desire to offer children the extraordinary opportunity to connect with the grandeur of nature—specifically, the universe—despite residing in a bustling metropolis. In urban settings, it’s often challenging for children to gaze upon a star-filled sky due to light pollution. The beauty of the starry night projected in the planetarium awaits, promising to invoke pure reactions of awe and wonder. Through this immersive planetarium experience, children will be inspired to explore their imagination and nurture their curiosity about the natural sciences, paving the way toward a richer inner life.

Perspectives from Partners

Suntory Holdings Inc.

Ryo Nakajima from Suntory's CSR Promotion Division highlighted the initiative:

“Children's potential is boundless. Our goal is to create a society where all children, regardless of their environment or circumstances, can unlock their potential. We are confident that this partnership with Tokyu Real Estate will further accelerate our efforts to improve the well-being of children and society as a whole.”

NPO Florence

Kohei Maeda, in charge of the Kids Adventure Bank at NPO Florence, added:

“The excitement and curiosity in children are the engines that will drive a vibrant society. Engaging children who lack experience is essential, and the support from diverse organizations, including companies, is vital. We find great encouragement in the participation of Tokyu Real Estate.”

About Kids Adventure Bank

The Kids Adventure Bank was developed through a collaborative effort between NPO Florence and Suntory Holdings, aiming to reduce the disparity of experiences available to children from various backgrounds. By August 2024, the service anticipates having 2,200 member households and has already engaged 55 companies, providing over 12,000 experiences across recreational facilities and outdoor activities.

The Future Vision of Tokyu Real Estate

Tokyu Real Estate Holdings has set forth its long-term vision, GROUP VISION 2030, emphasizing the importance of children as essential stakeholders in shaping the future society. Through educational programs tailored for elementary and middle school students, the group aims to ignite sparks of interest in social and environmental issues, ensuring that children can realize their potential, irrespective of their familial or economic background. This initiative stands as a testament to Tokyu Group's commitment to fostering a brighter future for children.