Tanoshimo Cafe

About this event

Held in Shimokawa Town, Hokkaido, Tanoshimo Cafe is a monthly community gathering celebrating its 10th year. Anyone can casually participate, including town residents, those considering relocating to Shimokawa Town, and anyone who wants to connect with the town. In a word, this cafe is a "town resident drinking party," held on the first or second Friday or Saturday of every month. It is scheduled carefully to avoid overlapping with other town events, targeting a wide range of people including locals, migrants, prospective migrants, inspection visitors, and Shimokawa fans. Key features include a potluck style where participants bring food and drinks, and name tags where you write the name you would like to be called. A children's corner with toys is also provided so families with small children can enjoy themselves. The toast shout is "Tanoshimo!" and there are thoughtful touches to deepen interaction, such as changing seats all at once at the organizers' signal. Participation is free and no advance registration is required. After the event finishes, people often head to an after-party, and the event has grown as a community where anyone interested in Shimokawa Town, not just local residents, can make connections. Depending on the month, there are about 30 to 40 participants ranging from people in their 20s to 70s, as well as child-rearing families with their children. Migrants account for 70 to 80 percent, with prospective migrants, Shimokawa fans, and visitors also attending. Here lies the secret to why people gather in a town of minus 30 degrees Celsius.

Venue

Komorebi

1-1 Kyoemachi, Shimokawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 098-1203