Eikei University Students Participate in Planning and Operations of 'Yokogawa River Summer Festival' in Hiroshima's Nishi Ward

A team led by second-year students from Eikei University (President Mutsuhiro Arunobu, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City)—Reina Ebihara, Nao Oya, Hina Okudaira, Daichi Yasuki, and Riko Yoshimoto—participated in the planning and operations of the 'Yokogawa River Summer Festival' (commonly known as 'Gawafes'), held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in the Yokogawa district of Nishi Ward, Hiroshima City, as part of the 'Yokogawa Next-Generation Co-Creation Supporters' initiative aimed at revitalizing the local community.

The students collaborated with members of the Yokogawa Shopping District Promotion Association to implement a 'nagashi-somen' (flowing noodle) event. They took the lead in all stages—from concept development and preparation to on-site operations—successfully providing enjoyment for numerous visitors.

The event attracted more attendees than expected, quickly reaching full capacity with reservations. Supported by local residents, the students experienced the joy of turning ideas into reality and recognized the importance of community connections. Witnessing children enjoying the nagashi-somen with smiles, they felt a strong sense of achievement in contributing to the area's vibrancy.

Participants expressed appreciation for experiencing the warmth of the community and the power of human connections, learning both the challenges and joys of event planning, and gratitude toward everyone who supported them.

Student Testimonials

Daichi Yasuki

'I am very happy that Gawafes concluded successfully and was such a great success. Looking back, I realize this event would not have been possible without the cooperation of the Yokogawa Shopping District Promotion Association, and I am filled with gratitude.

It was my first time attending a local festival in a while, and I was touched by Yokogawa’s uniquely warm atmosphere. In particular, the display of world national flags prepared by local residents created a wonderful ambiance of 'summer and the world' at the venue, which left a deep impression.

Seeing townspeople smiling and enjoying our event gave me a great sense of accomplishment. At the same time, seeing the joyful children, I strongly felt that I wish we could have done even more for them.'

Riko Yoshimoto

'Although I was anxious during the preparation phase about whether we could pull it off, looking back, the time flew by. This was a valuable opportunity to take on many challenges and interact with diverse people—experiences not typically available in everyday student life.

What impressed me most was the extensive network of the Yokogawa Shopping District Promotion Association. Whenever we faced difficulties or had questions, they immediately introduced us to the right people, allowing me to witness firsthand how personal connections lead to new ideas and initiatives.

On the day, seeing children happily catching the flowing noodles made me truly feel that our planned event had become a reality. I was deeply moved and happy.'

Reina Ebihara

'Although it was hot, working together with many people and sweating through the event operations was a fresh and enjoyable experience. I am also delighted that more people participated in the nagashi-somen than I had imagined.

I was particularly impressed by visitors happily selecting various dipping sauces and those who told us, 'It was delicious!' Even when long waiting times occurred, many people returned, and their words were a great encouragement.

At the beginning of preparation, I didn’t know where to start, but thanks to the support of local residents, we were able to succeed. I am truly grateful for this valuable opportunity.'

Hina Okudaira

'The strongest feeling after completing Gawafes was a sense of achievement. The moment our project—conceived from scratch and prepared over time with teammates—was successfully completed, I felt immense relief.

During the activities, local residents kindly supported us and even treated us to meals, which left a strong impression. Through these interactions, I felt the warmth of the community and was able to build new connections.

Before the event started, I was nervous, but seeing the customers’ joyful expressions made all my anxiety disappear. While I felt pride, I also developed a strong motivation to improve and do even better next time.'

Nao Oya

'I am very happy as a student to have participated in the planning of a major local event. Although the day was busy, I was relieved to see visitors enjoying themselves.

Due to the nature of the event, opportunities to deeply engage with local residents were limited. However, I was deeply impressed by the children’s creativity and joy as they skillfully caught the flowing noodles. I am glad we were able to create such a space.

On the day, I was solely focused on making it a success, but as time passed, I increasingly felt a strong sense of achievement in co-creating this event with so many people.'

Related Articles

The activities of our students in the 'Yokogawa Next-Generation Co-Creation Supporters' were featured in the Chugoku Shimbun.

Students Participate in Planning and Operations of 'Yokogawa River Summer Festival' on August 8 (Sat) - Official Website of Hiroshima Prefectural University Corporation, Eikei University

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