This year saw the return of "Odaiba Plage".
Every year, a section of Odaiba Marine Park is opened up for swimming, and many people, including local children, come to enjoy it.
When I think about how this event is made possible by the countless efforts of city officials and volunteers who clean and maintain the area to ensure visitors can swim safely, I am filled with immense gratitude.
Our family attended this year, but due to the high daytime temperatures, we gave up on swimming and went to enjoy the movie screening held in the evening.
This year, in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Odaiba's opening, DJs also participated, entertaining visitors with music, and the entire town of Odaiba came together to create an exciting atmosphere with the best location and situation.
There is no participation fee required, and I personally think it's a good idea to actively use local shops (though these are mostly convenience stores or commercial facilities). I am truly thankful and deeply appreciate being able to participate in such a wonderful event held in such a splendid location.
Opportunities like this didn't exist when we were children, or if they did, I remember the admission fees being quite expensive. However, in modern Japan, perhaps due to the declining birthrate, we see many free events across the country where adults, including local communities, do what they can for children.
This is simply a sign of the times, and there's no good or bad in it. However, I truly feel it's important not to forget our gratitude to the communities and city officials who organize these events and to simply enjoy ourselves thoroughly.
It goes without saying, but please remember to take your trash home after enjoying the event.
I'm looking forward to the event being held again next year!