Exciting Hanami 2026: A Networking Event for Startups in Shibuya

The much-anticipated Exciting Hanami 2026 is confirmed to take place on April 6, 2026. Organized by the entrepreneur community Chiba Dojo and its venture capital fund, Chiba Dojo Fund, this event will be hosted at the Shibuya Sakuragaoka Front Building in Tokyo. Having received rave reviews in previous years, this marks the third iteration of this unique spring gathering, which focuses on the startup ecosystem.

The venue will span three floors (B1F, 1F, and 2F), tailored specifically to foster networking among participants. The event opens with a Special Session from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. While specific details are still being finalized, last year's session featured prominent figures from Japan's startup industry, making it an enriching experience for attendees.

Networking Session (7:00 PM – 9:30 PM)

The main networking segment will occur across the three floors, each offering distinct themes to enhance the experience.

1st Floor: Tuna Butchering Show

Prepare to be amazed by a spectacular Tuna Butchering Show! Chiba Dojo Fund's GP, Kota Chiba, will perform the butchering and also serve fresh sushi prepared on-site. They will be sourcing the finest Japanese tuna, ensuring a true gastronomic experience. Kota, a graduate of the Tokyo Sushi Academy, will showcase his skills, allowing participants to savor various cuts from the tuna, creating a delightful culinary highlight of the event.

2nd Floor: Exclusive Ramen Experience

For ramen lovers, don’t miss the Exclusive Ramen on the second floor! Co-host Takaki Ishii will present ramen he personally adores, featuring legendary shops like Ichifuji and Anata Zettai Se Abura Tari Tenai. This year's collaboration aims to challenge the conventional thoughts around pop-up ramen.

Last year’s ramen drew long lines, and this time, preparations have been upgraded significantly, promising even higher quality thanks to improvements in noodle types and kitchen equipment. Whether you're a ramen enthusiast or just looking to enjoy great food, this bowl will not disappoint!

B1 Floor: Organic Daikon Oden

The beloved Oden featuring Organic Daikon from Chiba Farm will be on the menu, prepared with care by Associate Okamoto from Chiba Dojo Fund. While the selection is contingent on harvest conditions, the primary ingredient will be the completely organic daikon grown at Kamakura Chiba Farm.

As the evening progresses, attendees can step outside to witness the enchanting cherry blossoms illuminated under the night sky. However, please note that the bloom may vary, and flowers might be past their prime.

Event Overview

- Date & Time: April 6, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (participants are welcome to join or leave as needed)
- Venue: Shibuya Sakuragaoka Front Building, B1F / 1F / 2F
- Location: 16-12 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Entry Fee: Free (Approval Required)
- Capacity: Maximum of 200 attendees
- Eligibility:

1. Entrepreneurs of startups that have received funding from VC.
2. Entrepreneurs preparing to start or are pre-funding (subject to screening).
3. VCs, CVCs, or corporate members (closed due to full capacity).

- Registration: Register through this link.

About Chiba Dojo

Company Overview

- Name: Chiba Dojo Inc.
- CEO: Kota Chiba, Takaki Ishii
- Location: 16-12 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 2F
- Business: Manages the startup community Chiba Dojo and operates the venture investment fund Chiba Dojo Fund.
- Website: Chiba Dojo