The Hikikomori Voice Station 2024 is an innovative initiative designed to foster understanding and support for individuals experiencing social withdrawal. Hosted by Takahashi Minami, this event is organized by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, aiming to create a community that empathizes with and supports hikikomori individuals. The “Hikikomori Voice Station National Caravan” has been actively held across six regions in Japan, including Shiga, Tochigi, Yamagata, Yamaguchi, Kagoshima, and Aichi, starting from September.

Exhibition and Festival Details

• Exhibition:“HIKIKOMORI ANYONE? It Might Not Be Someone Else’s Problem” from February 19 to 24, 2025, at Shibuya n_space.
• Festival:Hikikomori Voice Station Festival on February 22, 2025, at Shibuya Hikarie Hall.

This exhibition will showcase works created collaboratively by hikikomori individuals and various creators, highlighting the voices and experiences of those affected by social withdrawal. The exhibition ambassador, Amon Miyamoto, who has personal experience as a hikikomori, will lead the initiative alongside notable creators such as Hyadain, a music producer, and Satoru Hiura, a manga artist.

Featured Works and Collaborations

• Video Work:Amon Miyamoto will facilitate workshops with hikikomori individuals to create a reading performance based on their experiences.
• Music:Hyadain will produce a song from submissions by hikikomori individuals, with an accompanying animated music video created by the animation team SHAKE HANDS.
• Manga:Satoru Hiura will illustrate the unique struggles faced by female hikikomori individuals through dialogue and artistic expression.
• VR Experience:Aiimi Sekiguchi will recreate the nightmares of hikikomori individuals in a virtual reality setting, allowing viewers to experience their dreams.
• Haiku and Photography:A collaboration between poet Itsuki Natsui and photographer Arata Dodo will showcase haikus submitted by hikikomori individuals, accompanied by poignant photographs.
• Installation Art:Contemporary artist Atsushi Watanabe will present works that connect with hikikomori individuals in real-time, addressing themes of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Large-scale Painting:Artist Tohhei Ikeda will work with hikikomori individuals to create a large canvas that symbolizes hope and interconnectedness.
• Family Perspectives:Yukako Izawa will create a video piece that captures the experiences of families with hikikomori members.

Festival Schedule and Participation

The Hikikomori Voice Station Festival will consist of two parts. The first part will feature discussions with Takahashi Minami and guests, including Amon Miyamoto and other participating creators, focusing on dispelling misconceptions about hikikomori individuals. The second part will include panel discussions with participants from the national caravan and students involved in the exhibition, aiming to deepen understanding and explore actionable steps.

Additionally, there will be opportunities for hikikomori individuals to connect with each other and with families and supporters in a safe environment.

Event Information

• Date:February 22, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:10 PM (doors open at 12:30 PM)
• Location:Shibuya Hikarie Hall and online via YouTube Live
• Capacity:100 attendees in-person (lottery if oversubscribed)

For more details and registration, please visit the official website.