The Highly Popular 'Ocean Free Research Festival' Returns This Year! Held in Harajuku, Tokyo on July 25 (Sat) and 26 (Sun), 2026!

Green Bird, an NPO based in Shibuya, Tokyo, that conducts litter-picking activities across cities and coastlines nationwide (Representative Director: Keisuke Fukuda), will host a children's event titled 'Ocean Free Research Festival' on July 25 (Saturday) and 26 (Sunday), 2026, at the mixed-use commercial facility 'WITH HARAJUKU' in Harajuku, Tokyo.

About the Ocean Free Research Festival 2026

Approximately 80% of marine debris originates from land-based sources, and plastic waste drifts in the ocean for hundreds of years without decomposing, polluting the seas and harming countless marine species. Humans are the root cause of these issues, and it is now essential for each individual to change their mindset to protect the oceans.

To empower the next generation with accessible and enjoyable learning opportunities on environmental issues, Green Bird launched the 'Ocean Free Research Festival' in 2018, combining marine environmental education with summer vacation free research projects. For its 8th edition, the festival will once again be held on the 3rd floor of WITH HARAJUKU, located in front of Harajuku Station, featuring a wide range of sensory-rich programs including 'Ocean Excitement Experience Workshops,' special guest talk shows, the 'Ocean Debris Aquarium' co-created with a public aquarium, and interactive booths by partner companies.

Highlights from 2025 are available here!

Event Overview

Dates: July 25 (Sat) 10:00–17:00 / July 26 (Sun) 10:00–17:00

Venue: WITH HARAJUKU 3F

Address: 1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001, 3F (Approx. 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station)

Target Audience: Elementary school students (Grades 1–6)

Admission: Free (Note: 'Ocean Excitement Experience Workshops' require prior registration and a fee of ¥1,000 per participant per session)

Instagram: @uminojiyukenkyu_fes

Program Details

Program ①: Ocean Excitement Experience Workshops

Workshop themes are introduced on Instagram!

Interactive workshops where children learn about marine environmental issues while completing a free research project.

In 2026, seven themes will be offered, including marine plastic pollution, ghost gear, and ocean deoxygenation.

Additionally, due to high demand last year, the capacity for the popular workshop 'Create a Snow Globe with Microplastics!' has been doubled.

Join trained instructors who have undergone specialized training to make environmental learning fun and engaging for children!

Workshop Registration Period

Registration: June 24 (Wed) 12:00 – July 8 (Wed) 12:00

Fee: ¥1,000 per person per workshop

Workshop Schedule

Session 1: 10:15– / Session 2: 12:30– / Session 3: 13:45– Session 4: 15:00– / Session 5: 16:15–

Program ②: Talk Show by 'Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan'

The popular media personality 'Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan' returns this year!

His talk show delivers fascinating insights into fish biology and the importance of the ocean in an entertaining way!

During the event, merchandise sales and photo sessions will also be held alongside the talk show.

Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan Official Website: https://sakana-bro.com

Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan YouTube: Kawachannel

Event Schedule for Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan

Talk Show: 11:15–12:00 Merchandise Sales & Photo Sessions: 12:15–13:00 / 14:00–15:00 (Same schedule on both days)

Program ③: Ocean Debris Aquarium

An 'Ocean Debris Aquarium' co-created with Kobe's aquarium 'átoa' will be exhibited.

In addition to the main tank displaying marine debris, exhibits will simulate how trash reaches the ocean, and a tank will showcase the future state of microplastics.

Observe the diverse realities of ocean-related waste!

átoa Official Website: https://atoa-kobe.jp

Program ④: Micro Beach for Microplastic Hunting

A simulated beach will be set up to experience the reality of microplastics on coastlines.

As children grow increasingly disconnected from the sea, this exhibit—alongside the Ocean Debris Aquarium—offers a chance to see and touch marine debris to deepen understanding.

Program ⑤: Mini Garbage Art

A booth where participants can create art using marine debris collected from the ocean.

Children below the age group for the 'Ocean Excitement Experience Workshops' are also welcome to participate!

Program ⑥: Partner Company Booths

One of the main attractions: 'Partner Company Booths'!

Experience the initiatives and work of companies tackling various ocean and planetary challenges.

Nitchimo Co., Ltd.

Create an eco-friendly fish keychain from recycled fishing nets! Limited quantities of eco-friendly folders also available!

Marine Engineering Co., Ltd.

Operate an underwater drone to search for ocean trash! How many items can you find? Discover clues on how we can all protect the ocean together!

UACJ Corporation

An interactive game to learn about aluminum can recycling in a fun way!

Mowi Japan Co., Ltd.

Last year’s popular item sold out by noon! Norwegian salmon sushi will be sold during workshop breaks—offering a moment to reflect on environmental issues through food!

Stamp Rally at Partner Company Booths

A stamp rally will be held during the event—visit partner booths to collect stamps and receive special merchandise designed by the guest 'Sakanano Oniisan Kawachan'!

Sponsors and Media Partners

Sponsors: Nitchimo Co., Ltd. / Marine Engineering Co., Ltd. / UACJ Corporation / Mowi Japan Co., Ltd.

Media Partner: Nihonkai Shipping News Co., Ltd.

Organizer: NPO Green Bird

Founded in 2002 in Harajuku, Tokyo, Green Bird is a volunteer litter-picking group that promotes accessible social contribution for all. Transcending age and background, over 20 years it has expanded to approximately 70 teams domestically and internationally, with over 30,000 participants annually. Its motto: 'A clean city cleans the human heart.'

Official Website: https://www.greenbird.jp

Instagram:

Inquiries

NPO Green Bird Contact: Baba Tel: 03-5469-5318 Email: [email protected]