How to Make a Difference: Ways You Can Donate in Japan
Are you looking to make an impact in Japan but not sure where to start? How to Make a Difference: Ways You Can Donate in Japan
Whether you're new to the country or have been here for a while, giving back to the community is a meaningful way to connect and make a difference. The good news? Donations come in many forms and are not limited to financial contributions. From volunteering your skills to donating essentials or even participating in charity events, there’s a way for everyone to contribute.
This guide will walk you through the various ways to donate in Japan and help you to give it a go.
Which organizations can I donate to?
Japan is home to nearly 50,000 nonprofit corporations (as of July 2024, according to the Japan NPO Center), so the opportunities to donate are vast. However, it’s worth noting that there are different types of corporations involved in charitable causes, including social welfare corporations and public interest corporations. You can learn more about the difference here.
Before diving in, consider the kind of impact you'd like to make. Do you prefer to support local or international causes? Are you looking for a one-off contribution or an ongoing commitment? We’ve listed some key organizations for both global and local causes below.
Global Impact
Organizations like UNICEF Japan, Good Neighbors Japan, and the Japanese Red Cross focus on national and international aid, including support in Gaza, Ukraine, Syria, Africa, and beyond. Seibo Japan is a Japan-based NPO that sells Malawi coffee through their program Warm Hearts Coffee, with 100% of proceeds helping to feed children in Malawi.
Local Support
There are many charitable organizations in Japan you can get involved with depending on your area of interest. Some of these include:
TELL Japan: Provides mental health support for international residents.
MyMizu: Promotes sustainability by mapping free, drinkable water spots across Japan.
Peace Boat Disaster Relief: Offers critical support during crises, such as after the Ishikawa earthquake.
Heart Full Family: Assists single mothers in Japan.
Second Harvest Japan: Japan’s first food bank.
Hands On Tokyo: Supports individuals with disabilities.
Mirai no Mori: Empowers children who have been orphaned or neglected.
Habitat for Humanity Japan: Tackles housing issues in the Asia-Pacific region.
Stonewall Japan: Advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion and support.
How can I donate?
Donate via transfer or online
Most charities or NPOs offer an option to donate directly on their website or via bank transfer.
Coin donation boxes
You might have spotted donation boxes in different locations, such as airports, local cafés, banks, and stores. For example, at UNIQLO, you can donate your old clothes as well as donate money to organizations including the Setouchi Olive Foundation.
Crowdfunding platforms
Crowdfunding platforms like CAMPFIRE enable you to support a variety of causes such as local community development projects and personal missions. Crowdfunding campaigns often include "returns," such as gifts or access to new services, as a token of appreciation for your donation.
Beyond Money: Other Ways to Give
Donate your time and skills
Why not spend some time with like-minded individuals, have fun, and give back at the same time? Volunteering offers the chance to connect with others and move towards a shared goal. Some volunteering opportunities include:
Beach and River Cleanups: Join groups like Tokyo River Friends, MyMizu, or Surfrider Foundation to help clean Japan’s waterways.
Fun Runs and Charity Events: Participate in events like Run For The Cure (breast cancer awareness), the Tokyo Marathon (partners with multiple charities), or TELL’s Step Up for Mental Health Challenge (raises awareness for suicide prevention in Japan) for a variety of causes and get your body moving in the process.
If you have the time and capacity to get involved, volunteering not only benefits organizations and those at the heart of the cause, but also helps you meet like-minded people and gain a sense of fulfillment in return.
Book an experience and donate the proceeds
Some businesses partner with NPOs, seamlessly integrating donations into everyday purchases. For instance, ByFood collaborates with Seibo Japan through its Food for Happiness program. By booking a food experience with ByFood, you’re not just indulging in Japanese cuisine but also providing ten meals to children in need, often in developing countries.
Donate your leftover foreign currency
Do you have any leftover coins or cash from past trips overseas? Well, the good news is you can donate foreign coins and notes, too! Organizations like UNICEF, ADRA Japan, and Peace Boat Disaster Relief accept these contributions. You can drop them off at donation boxes in international airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, Shin-Chitose, Sendai, Hiroshima) or participate in programs like Japan Airlines’ in-flight "Change for Good". Donations are also accepted at partner locations, such as SMBC bank branches. It’s a simple way to turn unused currency into meaningful support.
Donating goods and essentials
Support those in need by donating items like clothing, food, or living products. Check for local donation boxes at train stations or community centers, or contribute to organizations like Second Harvest Japan, which accepts non-perishable foods for distribution through food pantries. Remember to donate items in good condition—don’t give away anything that wouldn’t bring a smile to someone’s face. Initiatives like Food Bank Azabu also collect food donations for families in need, making it easy to give back.
Donate your blood
Blood donations or kenketsu (献血) are essential but often overlooked as a form of giving back in Japan. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can give blood at a specified center, including Red Cross Japan locations. There are also organizations such as NRNA Japan (Non-Resident Nepalese Association), which hold group donation drives to make the process easier, especially for non-Japanese speakers. Read this article for more on blood donations and how to donate in Japan.
How can I maximize my impact?
Tax deductions
You can receive a tax deduction on your donation. Donations to a nonprofit organization are tax-deductible only if you live in Japan and if the recipient nonprofit is one of a selected type so make sure you have a look into this beforehand.
Get involved in a charity sponsorship event through your company
Some companies sponsor charity programs and encourage employees to volunteer or take part. For instance, Peace Boat Disaster Relief collaborates with corporate sponsors, including in delivering aid during emergencies, and the American Chamber of Commerce Japan (ACCJ) collaborated with Hands On Tokyo to provide urgent support in the aftermath of the Noto Peninsula Earthquake.
Consider furusato nōzei as a way to give back to Japan
This government program allows taxpayers to donate to a specific municipality in exchange for gifts like local produce. It’s a win-win for supporting rural areas while enjoying a tangible benefit, often in the form of local products. This site by Kyotango helps explain the program and how you can contribute as an international resident in Japan.
Final thoughts
Donating in Japan can take many forms, from monetary contributions to volunteering or sharing resources. No matter how big or small your contribution, giving back creates a ripple effect and makes you feel good, too.
If you’re ready to donate, take some time to find a cause that aligns with your values and capacity. Making a difference is easier—and more rewarding—than you think!
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Get in touch with Giving Tuesday Japan to learn more about donation opportunities in Japan https://www.givingtuesday.jp/contacten.
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Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, details regarding donation methods, accepted currencies, and organizational processes may change over time. We recommend confirming the latest guidelines and requirements directly with the organizations mentioned before making a donation.
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