The official start to the holiday shopping season is close at hand, and we will be bombarded with all the ads and sales and pre-packaged gift baskets and such. However, do not be sucked in by the new and the flashy and the mass-produced. Our local shopping guide, publishing next week, will help point you in the right direction.
Japan House is hosting their annual bazaar, Mottainai, on December 14th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and December 15th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. While this will surely be mentioned again in the guide, I feel like it needs a special shout out. I’ve gone the past few years now, and I always find some unique gems. Here’s what the event description has to say:
Focusing on the “4 R’s”, reduce, reuse, recycle and respect, we have gathered unique items and accessories from all our friends around the world and will be offering them for sale to you. In addition to those treasures and a few items imported from Japan, the Japan House Interns have been working hard to create handmade crafts for sale.
Many items at the Annual Holiday Bazaar are Asian or Asian-inspired, but there are many others from cultures across the globe. Just a few of the treasures you will find: Asian pottery, household goods, imported items, kimono, origami, handmade Intern crafts, antiques, scrolls, books, prints, matcha tea, clothing, collectibles, tea equipment, jewelry and more!
Many of the items are inexpensive, making it a great opportunity to get some gift buying accomplished. Sales from the event benefit the Japan House Internship Program.
Photo from Japan House Facebook page