"NEW FRIENDS" Talk Session at Ikebukuro PARCO: Explore Culture

The "NEW FRIENDS” TALK SESSION" will be held at Ikebukuro PARCO's POP UP SPACE "POOL" on the 2nd floor of the main building from October 17th to 18th, 2026. This event focuses on discussions themed around the city of Ikebukuro and Ikebukuro PARCO, aiming to foster new encounters and cultural creation.

On the first day, October 17th (Saturday), Toshiki Okada, Artistic Director of the "Autumn Meteorite" performing arts festival and Artistic Director of the Performing Arts Department at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, will be a speaker. He will discuss the potential for new culture emerging from Ikebukuro, drawing from his experience with the "Autumn Meteorite" festival, which began around the same time as Ikebukuro PARCO's renewal and also encompasses the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre. As a playwright and novelist active both domestically and internationally, Okada's perspective is expected to shed light on the future of community-based cultural creation.

The following day, October 18th (Sunday), under the banner "Curated North Tokyo," PONDENO, founder and Creative Director of Pickyou Inc., and Hiroaki Nagahata, Editor-in-Chief of "STUDY" magazine, will take the stage. Their discussion will center on finding new friends across different communities and scenes, exploring how to navigate and connect through diverse fields such as fashion, music, and work. The session promises insights from PONDENO, born in 1998 and recognized as a leading next-generation creator, and Nagahata, who founded the independent fashion magazine "STUDY" and also works as a podcaster.

This event is free to enter and will take place at the POP UP SPACE "POOL" on the 2nd floor of Ikebukuro PARCO's main building. While specific details of the talk sessions will be announced later, please check the official website for the latest information, as content may be subject to change or cancellation. Related shop events and novelty distributions are also planned, creating a "NEW FRIENDS" themed experience throughout Ikebukuro PARCO.

Ikebukuro PARCO is conveniently located with direct access from JR Ikebukuro Station and Tokyo Metro Ikebukuro Station. This event is ideal for those interested in contemporary culture and creative activities, or anyone looking to discover new facets of Ikebukuro.

Event Details

• Event Name: "NEW FRIENDS” TALK SESSION
• Venue: POP UP SPACE "POOL", 2F, Main Building, Ikebukuro PARCO
• Address: 1-28-2 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
• Dates: October 17, 2026 (Sat) - October 18, 2026 (Sun)
• October 17 (Sat) Speaker: Toshiki Okada (Artistic Director, "Autumn Meteorite" Performing Arts Festival / Artistic Director, Performing Arts Department, Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre)
• October 17 (Sat) Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• October 18 (Sun) Speakers: PONDENO (Founder/Creative Director, Pickyou Inc.), Hiroaki Nagahata (Editor-in-Chief, "STUDY" Magazine)
• October 18 (Sun) Time: Undecided
• Admission: Free
• Nearest Station: JR Ikebukuro Station / Tokyo Metro Ikebukuro Station

Access

Directly accessible from JR Ikebukuro Station and Tokyo Metro Ikebukuro Station. Ikebukuro PARCO is connected to the station, making it easily accessible even on rainy days. As event details will be announced later, please refer to the official website for the most current information. Checking details such as participation methods and whether numbered tickets will be distributed in advance will help ensure a smooth experience.