The 19th ROOTOTE Charity Event is underway, organized by ROOTOTE, a well-known tote bag brand based in Shibuya, Tokyo. This year's event features 35 prominent personalities from various fields, each of whom has created one-of-a-kind tote bag artwork to raise funds for children in need through Save the Children Japan. The idea behind this initiative is quite inspiring: the tote bag itself can serve as a canvas for artistic expression.
From December 6 to December 15, 2025, an exhibition at Monkey Gallery in Daikanyama showcases these creative pieces. Each artwork is meticulously designed, reflecting the unique perspectives and talents of its creator. As the event approaches, attendees can anticipate a vibrant display of creativity and compassion, culminating in a charity auction hosted on Yahoo! Auctions starting December 9.
The collected proceeds from the auction will be entirely donated to Save the Children Japan, which works tirelessly to support children living in economically challenging circumstances within the country. This initiative includes various programs aimed at improving food security as well as providing essential supplies to families in need.
The ROOTOTE Charity Event underscores the brand's commitment to social responsibility and community involvement. Over the years, the event has raised significant funds, totaling over 70 million yen, which have been directed towards various aid initiatives including support for children affected by natural disasters and health crises.
This year’s participants include a diverse array of talents, such as voice actors, musicians, athletes, and artists. Notable names include Aina Aibana, actor Masato Matsuda, and sports commentator Daisuke Matsuzaka among others. Their contributions not only aim to highlight the importance of art but also to connect with the community, encouraging others to participate and support children's welfare.
The tote bags used in this event are part of ROOTOTE's 'Tote as Canvas' concept, which posits that tote bags – made from canvas fabric – can also serve as an artist’s medium. This approach has transformed ordinary bags into extraordinary pieces of art, sparking joy and creativity in unexpected ways. ROOTOTE believes that everyone should enjoy both creating art and using it daily, turning the streets into a moving gallery filled with unique expressions.
The exhibition at the Monkey Gallery offers free admission and welcomes anyone curious about this artistic endeavor. The gallery opens from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM each day, making it accessible for those who want to see the art in person.
As the auction progresses, fans and supporters are encouraged to participate actively, bidding on their favorite designs while knowing that their contributions will directly benefit those in need. The auction will not only enhance awareness around the issue of child poverty but also underscore how collective efforts can lead to impactful change.
Those interested in viewing the artwork or participating in the auction can find more information on the ROOTOTE brand website. Furthermore, updates and highlights from the event can be followed under the hashtag #RTCharity on social media platforms.
The ROOTOTE Charity Event is much more than a mere exhibition or auction; it's a heartfelt campaign that intends to make a significant difference in the lives of children across Japan. By blending creativity, community, and compassion, ROOTOTE continues to establish itself not only as a leader in the tote bag market but also as a powerful advocate for social change. Gather together this December to witness creativity at its finest and to help foster a brighter future for all children.