#Japan #Sakai City #Toyonaka City #Music Donation #Toyonaka,Sakai

Toyonaka and Sakai Cities Embrace Instrument Donation Initiative

On October 1, 2025, Toyonaka and Sakai cities in Osaka Prefecture participated in a new initiative called the "Musical Instrument Donation Furusato Tax." This marks the first implementation of such a program within the Osaka Prefecture and has already seen multiple donations realized in just about 20 days from its launch.

The "Musical Instrument Donation Furusato Tax" is a nationwide effort to provide donated musical instruments from individuals' homes to children and educational institutions facing instrument shortages. When an individual donates an instrument, it is assessed, and the evaluated amount is treated similarly to the Furusato Tax, allowing for tax deductions and refunds. This framework enables individuals to contribute unused instruments for the benefit of society.

Unlike standard Furusato Tax donations which often come with "return gifts," this initiative connects donors with heartfelt expressions of gratitude from children and students. Participants may receive thank-you letters or invitations to performances. This program reflects a genuine commitment to supporting local communities and children, evidenced by the over 1,050 musical instruments that have been donated thus far.

The initiative aims to eliminate disparities in access to music education by promoting the re-use of instruments, and it is expanding throughout various regions across the country. With the involvement of Toyonaka and Sakai cities, the circle of support in the Kansai region is expected to grow even further.

Feedback from the community has been positive, with residents expressing surprise and excitement over the opportunity to donate instruments. Comments such as, "I just learned I can donate my old trumpet from the closet" reflect the increasing interest in the initiative.

Future endeavors will include promoting the program in other municipalities and boosting awareness about the donation process to make it more accessible. The Musical Instrument Donation Furusato Tax seeks to establish a sustainable support structure that connects unused instruments to the next generation of young musicians.

About Toyonaka City

Toyonaka City is located in the northern part of Osaka Prefecture and has developed as a suburban residential area early on within the greater Osaka metropolitan region. Situated adjacent to Osaka City, it boasts excellent transport access with trains, monorails, and proximity to Osaka International Airport. The abundance of parks and greenery makes Toyonaka an attractive place to live. Notably, Toyonaka is renowned as a city rich in music. With numerous music resources such as Osaka University of Music and the Japan Century Symphony Orchestra, various music events take place throughout the city. To spread the charm of the "Musical City of Toyonaka," the city designates approximately two months around October as "Toyonaka Music Month," hosting a multitude of music events for enthusiasts. Your warm donations would be greatly appreciated in this vibrant musical landscape!

About Sakai City

Sakai City is rich in historical culture, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group and the famous tea culture represented by Sen no Rikyū. The city's proximity to Kansai International Airport also allows it to blend traditional history with modern urban functions. The long-established traditions and innovative initiatives contribute to a vibrant community with various cultural and artistic experiences. Throughout Sakai City, opportunities to engage with music and arts abound, as local events lead to parks and plazas becoming stages for performances. The city fosters an environment where both professionals and amateurs can express themselves freely. As part of the Furusato Tax initiative, we look forward to your donations to facilitate the maintenance and re-utilization of unused instruments, ensuring they reach passionate young musicians.

Collaborating Organizations

The Instrument Donation Furusato Tax Implementation Committee and Secretariat consist of various organizations, including Pursuit Co., Ltd. which operates in regional planning and community engagement, and Market Enterprise Co., Ltd, the instrument assessment business, which has been thriving since its establishment in 2006, focusing on sustainable practices and community contributions. Their combined efforts aim to ensure that no musical potential goes unfulfilled due to lack of instruments.

For more information, you can visit the official websites of Pursuit and Market Enterprise.