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"WASEDASAI 2026": Turning the passion of Waseda students into energy for tomorrow.

WASEDASAI 2026 Organizing Staff
Representative, 3rd year, School of Political Science and Economics Takaaki Ono
Second Vice-Representative, 3rd year, School of Political Science and Economics Aoi Takahashi

—Could you tell us about the meaning behind the catchphrase for "WASEDASAI 2026," "This light is for 'you'?"

Ono

Ono: We wanted to convey the passion that emanates from the earnest efforts of Waseda students, hoping to ignite a spark in each individual's heart and inspire them to take a new step forward. There are times when the "earnest efforts" of athletes or dancers who express themselves with their whole bodies move people, aren't there? We call that passionate power a "light," and we want to deliver that energy to "you," and no one else. And we aim for WASEDASAI to be a source of energy for tomorrow and a catalyst for taking a new step forward.

Left: Poster for "WASEDASAI 2026"
Right: A logo inspired by a raging flame.

This idea resonates with my own experiences. In my first year as a member of the organizing staff, I was in charge of the "Okuma Auditorium Stage Project," and I was deeply moved and energized by the overwhelming dedication of the performers to the stage. That experience led me to serve as the chief of the same project in my second year, and through that work, I received "inspiration" from WASEDASAI as a whole and from the activities of the organizing staff. In 2026, my third year, I ran for representative.

Takahashi: A person's genuine effort has the power to move someone's heart, so I hope that people will not only focus on the project or performance in front of them, but also pay attention to the "passion" and "feelings" of each individual Waseda student behind it, and feel inspired to be positive.

—What are some of the projects you're most interested in as a member of the organizing staff?

Takahashi

Takahashi: This is the "Waseda Cuisine Project," which we are undertaking with restaurants and the university co-op near the university. In addition to selling collaborative menus, in 2026 we are also working on having some stores play "Tomoshibi wa Mada," the official theme song for WASEDASAI 2026. Through the collaborative menus and theme song, we will liven up WASEDASAI throughout the entire city, so please come and enjoy it!

Ono: The real highlight is definitely the "Ending Festival," which takes place on the second day at 5:15 PM on the stage in front of Okuma Auditorium on Waseda Campus. It's the event that concludes WASEDASAI, and about seven groups, including performance student club, come together to showcase their talents. The performances are meticulously planned down to the second and practiced repeatedly, so it's a condensed display of the "serious dedication of Waseda students," and I hope you'll come and see it!

Takahashi: In the courtyard around Building 33 on Toyama Campus, we will be holding a new "Eco Candle Project," which was previously held on Waseda Campus. Eco candles made from waste oil from restaurants will be colored with crayons and arranged in a pattern resembling WASEDASAI logo before being lit. You should be able to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a peaceful space.

Left: The excitement reaches its peak at the "Ending Festival" (Scenes from "WASEDASAI 2025")
Right: Eco-candle project (Scene from "WASEDASAI 2025")

Ono: Looking at each campus, Waseda Campus can be described in one word as "chaos," with a wide variety of events including stage performances, indoor events, and food stalls, creating an overwhelming sense of energy. On the other hand, Toyama Campus, while still energetic, offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Live performances by top artists are also planned at Waseda Arena.

A variety of guest artists will be performing live. Please check the official website for ticket information and other details.

I believe everyone enjoys WASEDASAI in their own way. To help people find their own way to enjoy it at both campuses, we'd like them to utilize the "model courses" tailored to the attributes and needs of visitors, which are introduced in the official pamphlet and other materials, and experience the "light of Waseda student spirit."

--Finally, do you have a message for the attendees and Waseda University students participating?

Ono: WASEDASAI, which the organizing staff and participating/cooperating organizations pour their hearts into, is a place where the "true passion of Waseda students" blossoms. I hope you will experience that and take home a positive feeling. I am confident that WASEDASAI has that much power, so please come and visit!

Takahashi: WASEDASAI is a festival that wouldn't be possible without Waseda students, and we, the organizing staff, feel that we receive our "light" from the Waseda students who participate and attend. We promise smooth operation, so we hope you will enjoy WASEDASAI to the fullest.

Tips that can give you a slight advantage if you know them

WASEDASAI attracts a large number of visitors every year. We conducted a survey of Waseda students to find out what tips they think will help them enjoy the festival more efficiently. Here are some of their tips, including how to navigate the campus and how to take breaks.

★Recommended by our staff! Make use of our official app!★

The "WASEDASAI Official App," a first-time initiative in 2026, allows users to create their own personalized timetables for stage events, using model courses as a reference.

In addition, we plan to include features such as offline maps, event search, and a function to check the sales status of official merchandise. Please make use of them!

"WASEDASAI 2026" Overview

Official pamphlets will be distributed at one location each on the Waseda and Toyama campuses!

Date and time: Saturday, November 7th and Sunday, November 8th, 2026 10:00-17:00
Location: Waseda University Waseda Campus, Toyama Campus

◆Official website: https://wasedasai.net/
◆Official X: @wasedasai
◆Official Instagram: @wasedasai
◆Official YouTube: Wasedasaiofficial
◆Official TikTok: @wasedasai
◆Official mascot character "Waseda Sai-kun" Official X: @wasedasai_kun

Prior to WASEDASAI, we will be holding a Countdown Event and a pre-festival party on the following dates.

[Countdown Event]
◆November 2nd (Monday) 12:25-13:00 (Toyama Campus Toyama Hill)
◆November 3rd (Tue) 12:25-13:00 (In front of Building 3, Waseda Campus)
◆Wednesday, November 4th, 12:25 PM - 1:00 PM (In front of the Okuma Memorial Auditorium Waseda Campus)

[Pre-festival]
◆November 6th (Fri) 17:00-19:00 (Okuma Memorial Auditorium Waseda Campus)

Interview and text: Kaori Sasuga
Photo: Shiori Banjyo

The 73rd Rikoten: Take home new discoveries and cultivate intellectual curiosity.

Yamazaki (left), Director of Information at the "Rikoten," and  Suzuki (right), Vice-Representative.

Staff of the 73rd Rikoten
Vice-Representative, 3rd year, School of Advanced Science and Engineering Aoi Suzuki
Director of Information, School of Creative Science and Engineering 3rd year Kaito Yamazaki

—Please tell us about the thoughts behind the theme and tagline, and the challenges you're taking on that are unique to 2026.

Suzuki

Suzuki: The theme for 2026, "SPIRAL," and the tagline, "The Intertwining Journey of Knowledge," reflect the realities of science and technology and the history of the Rikoten. Research and manufacturing in science and technology do not progress in a straight line; they move forward through repeated failures and trial and error. Rikoten has also built upon the knowledge and ingenuity inherited from our predecessors, striving for new heights like climbing a spiral staircase. We have embodied our determination to continue evolving in the theme of "SPIRAL."

 

Left: Poster for the "73rd Rikoten"
Right: Logo shaped like the letter S of "SPIRAL"

The 2026 Rikoten aims to build upon previous achievements, conveying the evolution of science and technology, while also delivering new knowledge and discoveries through a diverse range of advanced projects, fostering stimulation and curiosity that enriches everyday life.

Yamazaki

Yamazaki: In 2026, we are particularly focusing on experiential projects using XR technology (*) so that people can experience cutting-edge technology firsthand. For example, there is "Anomalous Observation," a project that adds XR elements to a puzzle-solving game, "Let's dive into VR," a game using VR goggles, and a project that reproduces your own movements on a computer.

* Advanced technology that merges the virtual and real worlds. A general term encompassing VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and MR (Mixed Reality).

—What are some of the unique attractions and noteworthy events at Rikoten?

Suzuki: The appeal of Rikoten is not just enjoying the exhibits, but also being able to take home experiences and discoveries that stimulate intellectual curiosity. The exhibits mainly consist of science and technology-related activities that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from students to families with young children, by seeing and touching them, such as the experimental workshop "Protect Earth from Alien Invasion! Science Rangers" and the "Research Lab Tour" where you can visit and tour research labs, so I think even people who are not familiar with science will be able to enjoy it intuitively.

One of the highlights is a special performance by QuizKnock's Shunki Sugai and Yoshiaki Yamamoto (2020 graduates of the School of Advanced Science and Engineering), which will include a talk show and a quiz competition with audience participation. It will be ticketed only and reservations can be made on the special website, so please apply in advance. We also recommend the "Robot Festival," which will feature a bipedal robot competition and exhibits. You can experience the high level of technology up close by watching the robots battle each other.

Yamazaki: There are a variety of programs, so if you look for programs that interest you in advance on the official website or the official pamphlet app "Aprico," you can get around more smoothly. On the other hand, just dropping by a program that catches your eye on the day is also a way to enjoy it. I hope that the lab tours and experimental experiences you participate in will be an opportunity for you to discover new interests.

--Finally, do you have a message for those who will be attending?

Suzuki: We have prepared new discoveries and exciting experiences that will enrich your daily life, for everyone from young children to adults, so please enjoy the day.

Yamazaki: You might think that science and engineering school festivals are intimidating, but they offer unique experiences you wouldn't normally get to have, and interesting events that you'll want to tell everyone about. We look forward to seeing you at Nishi-Waseda Campus on the day of the festival!

Left: In the atrium of Building 55, the official virtual android "Yaguchi Kaede" (left) and the official mascot character "Yaguchi-kun" (right) welcome visitors (Scene from the 72nd Rikoten).
Right: Also note the "Rikoten Liaison Committee" logo on the back of the happi coat!

Tips that can give you a slight advantage if you know them

Here are some tips to help you make the most of Rikoten.

There are plenty of free events to enjoy, such as exhibitions and hands-on activities! There are also many food and drink vendors, so it's a great place for students, as well as people who don't like crowds and families to relax and enjoy themselves.

It seems they'll also be demonstrating the autonomous robot "Micromouse." This is also highly recommended, as you can see firsthand the high level of technological prowess in the field of robotics, not limited to bipedal locomotion!

★Recommended by our staff! Make use of our official app!★

The official Rikoten pamphlet app, "Aprico," brings together a variety of services, including a 3D map showing your current location, a stamp rally where you collect stamps on your smartphone, event search, ticket collection, and coupons. Download it and use it to help you get around the venue on the day of the event.

For some events, you will need to obtain a numbered ticket through this app. Additionally,QuizKnock performances and some other events utilize an external ticketing system.