TOKYO: Just before heading to Rwanda on some charity work, American socialite Paris Hilton headed to Tokyo on Tuesday to judge a beauty contest.
Hilton and her younger sister, Nicky, each chose one finalist for the Miss Universe Japan contest. A dozen or so more will be selected next month.
"I love Tokyo," Hilton said. "The shopping is great."
Hilton has promised to try improving her bad-girl image since she finished a jail term this June for violating probation in an alcohol-related reckless driving case. She had announced plans to do charity work in Rwanda this month for the Playing for Good Foundation, but later decided to postpone the trip.
Her appearance at a Tokyo fashion boutique to judge the contest packed the room with photographers and TV cameras. Gawking bystanders lined the street outside.
The reigning Miss Universe Riyo Mori is from Japan. She is the first Japanese to win the pageant since 1959.
