one: Instead of buying a Christmas gift for a loved one this year, do some good by buying a charitable gift. Oxfam offer a range of interesting gift ideas. Buy a chicken for a family in Africa and receive a certificate to give as a present.
Oxfam Japan (http://oxfam.jp/unwrapped), ¥1,500.
two: Selected bakeries across Tokyo are collaborating with World Vision on the symbolic Love Cake Project. Buy a delicious cake with a piece missing and the cost of that piece goes to needy children in the developing world. See the website below for participating patisseries.
World Vision (www.worldvision.jp/), various prices.
three: UNICEF has become synonymous over the years with its popular holiday cards, the proceeds of which benefit the world’s children. A large assortment of designs are available, including some traditional Japanese ones. Trendy interior goods and accessory store LOFT offering the popular Unicef Christmas cards, reasonably priced starting at ¥180.
LOFT stores or online at (www2.unicef.or.jp), starting at ¥180 each or ¥1,200 for a set.
four: Eco themes are more popular than ever this year, and what better way to help people than to help the planet? More Trees is an organization dedicated to the maintenance and upkeep of forests both in Japan and abroad. Buy cool wooden crafts and designer products like this t-shirt that don’t damage the earth.
More Trees (www.more-trees.org), ¥10,290.
five: This little chocolate gift is just one of a great selection offered by fair trade and ecology company People Tree. At just ¥500 it makes a great stocking filler, and your money goes to help disadvantaged workers in the developing world.
People Tree (www.peopletree.co.jp), ¥500.
six: Popular with eco-conscious Tokyoites, The Body Shop offers a raft of community trade and eco-friendly products, including this body butter selection that is part of this year’s ‘Beauty of Giving’ theme.
The Body Shop (www.the-body-shop.co.jp), ¥2,625.
Photos courtesy of their respective retailers
