Summer in Japan is packed with festivals, fireworks and family events, but if you're looking for somewhere to escape the heat while keeping the kids entertained, Hanshin Umeda Main Store in Osaka has plenty to offer.
Running from July 22nd to August 18th, the HANSHIN Summer Festival transforms the department store into a family-friendly destination with Sesame Street taking center stage. Visitors can enjoy exclusive merchandise, themed food, interactive activities, and hands-on workshops designed to create memorable summer holiday experiences.
One of the biggest highlights is a special chartered Elmo train experience on August 1st. Families can ride a dedicated Sesame Street-themed train, meet Elmo and friends for photos and high-fives, and even take part in a workshop where children decorate their own miniature train using colorful masking tape. Spaces are limited, so advance reservations are recommended.
Inside the store, the sixth-floor Sesame Street Market will be serving character-themed shaved ice inspired by favorites including Elmo, Cookie Monster and Big Bird. Hanshin Umeda Main Store will also offer an exclusive black sesame shaved ice topped with edible gold flakes and a tiger-costumed Elmo decoration, making it a fun treat for both kids and adults.
Families can also check out the Children's College program, which offers dozens of hands-on experiences ranging from cooking classes and craft workshops to Mini 4WD racing, baseball glove making with Mizuno, and even one-day store manager experiences for older children. Many activities require advance reservations, but several demonstration booths will also be available during the festival.
