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A Unique Experience of Banana Paper Making for Kids

On November 29, 2026, a special event titled "Creating Earth-Friendly Art with SDGs and Banana Paper" will take place in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Organized by Choice Hotels Japan, this hands-on experience is designed for elementary school children who are members of the official website program, Choice Guest Club™.

This event marks the third edition, following earlier sessions in November 2025 and January 2026. The collaboration involves three key players: One Planet Café Zambia, which focuses on sustainable practices; Takahashi Lab from Musashino University’s Department of Sustainability, which engages in environmental education; and Choice Hotels Japan.

The event will allow participants to explore the world of banana paper, made from the fibers of banana stems. They will engage in activities such as paper-making, coloring, and even creating unique items designed by students. Children will also learn about the origins of banana paper and the current situation in Zambia, where these bananas are sourced, connecting the dots between local artisan efforts, global sustainability, and fair trade.

Background of the Initiative

Choice Hotels Japan aims to provide opportunities for members to learn and experience how hospitality can contribute to social good. The Choice Guest Club™ program, aligned with the vision of revitalizing communities through travel, offers members perks such as discounted accommodations and long-stay deals. Moreover, they implement a program that donates 0.5% of member accommodation fees to organizations dealing with social issues.

One of the beneficiaries of this program is One Planet Café Zambia, which produces fair-trade banana paper from organic bananas, generating new jobs in Zambia. This production also incorporates techniques from traditional Japanese papermaking, specifically Echizen Washi.

Through the event, children will not just learn but actively participate in banana paper making, realizing how their stay and engagement can contribute to larger social initiatives. The goal is to foster understanding and appreciation for the organizations involved while showing how hospitality can directly support beneficial local activities.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Creating Earth-Friendly Art with SDGs and Banana Paper
• - Venue: TKP Ichigaya Conference Center, 8 Hachimancho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - Date: November 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
• - Eligibility: Must be a member of the Choice Guest Club™ and have set up email communication preferences.
• - Participants: Approximately 20 members' children from the club, free of charge.
• - Collaborating Organizations: One Planet Café Zambia and Takahashi Lab from Musashino University.

The event will cover engaging activities such as:
1. Paper Making: Participants will mix banana stem fibers with organic pulp and water using a frame to create paper by hand.
2. Coloring: Once dried, the paper will undergo coloring to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
3. Creative Goods: Finally, children will produce their unique items from the colored banana paper, which they can take home.

Choice Guest Club™ Overview

With more than 1.32 million members, Choice Guest Club™ provides a program that not only offers travel benefits but also emphasizes learning about SDGs through practical experiences. The initiative is built around the concept that each stay can incrementally contribute to societal benefits. Every stay contributes a “choice” which correlates with donation amounts to address challenges in areas like environment, education, and employment.

About Choice Hotels Japan

Founded in September 2000 and headquartered in Chuo, Tokyo, Choice Hotels Japan oversees a range of franchises across Japan, representing global leader Choice Hotels International. Their commitment to social contributions through impactful hotel stays continues to drive innovative events like this one, inspiring future generations to think sustainably.

To secure a spot, please register for the Choice Guest Club™ and set your email preferences by September 28, 2026. Members will receive an application form via email starting September 29.

For more information about the event and offerings, visit the official Choice Hotels website.