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Vending machines in Tokyo are being used for a new purpose: encouraging charitable giving. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has installed bright red Giving Machines at the Otemori Forest Plaza in Otemachi Tower, located in the city’s business district. Instead of dispensing goods, these machines allow users to donate items such as food, clothing, shelter, textbooks, disaster kits, and sports equipment to people in need. All operational costs are covered by the Church, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to five partner charities.
Since their introduction in 2017 as part of the Church’s Light the World initiative, nearly three million people have donated almost $50 million through Giving Machines worldwide. This year, Tokyo joins 125 other cities across 21 countries and six continents hosting these machines.
The launch event on November 27 brought together leaders from government, religious groups, corporations, community organizations, and representatives from the five participating charities along with members of the Church’s Asia North Area Presidency and their spouses. The opening coincided with Japan’s Labor Thanksgiving Day on November 24.
Ryosho Shoji, deputy secretary general of the World Fellowship of Buddhists and chair of its Humanitarian Aid Committee, spoke about cooperation among different groups: “Although we come from different religions and positions, by joining our efforts, we can create great strength and help those who are struggling.”
Mitsuya Kodama, secretary general of CARE International Japan, addressed local and global challenges: “These are not someone else’s problems, but social issues that we must address.” He added: “When you see these red machines, I hope you will pause for a moment and turn your wish for someone’s happiness into action. This small light will surely become someone’s hope.”
Elder J. Kimo Esplin, president of the Asia North Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said: “The true spirit of Christmas lies in giving, and Giving Machines bring the spirit of Christmas to life. Let us brighten the world together, starting today.”
The five organizations working with Tokyo’s Giving Machines include Second Harvest Japan (food assistance), Good Neighbors (aid for single-parent households and disaster recovery), Japan Association for Refugees (legal and livelihood support), UNHCR (emergency response and refugee protection), and CARE International Japan (support against poverty and hunger).
Japan is known for its high density of vending machines—over four million nationwide—which offer a wide range of products. The Giving Machines adapt this familiar technology to encourage acts of compassion instead.
The Tokyo Giving Machines will remain open through December 25. More information about locations and supported charities is available at https://GivingMachinesJapan.jp.
