#Japan #Furusato Tax #Tokyoyamato #Local Experience

A New Approach to Furusato Tax in Tokyoyamato City

Starting September 5, 2025, Tokyoyamato City in Tokyo will introduce an unprecedented model of the Furusato Tax system known as "Locafull." This innovative approach allows donors to experience the locality firsthand and interact with its offerings in a completely new way.

Traditionally, Furusato Tax has revolved around an online shopping model where donors select products from various regions without visiting them. This often resulted in limited engagement with local businesses and the community. Recognizing this oversight, Tokyoyamato City aims to redefine the furusato tax experience by creating direct opportunities for donors to visit, engage, and appreciate the local ambiance of the city.

The Concept Behind 'Locafull'

The name "Locafull" stems from the idea of merging local experiences with fundraising, effectively allowing donors to unlock the true essence of the region via their contributions. This model promotes experiential gifts rather than mere material possessions, encouraging a deeper connection between individuals and the city's vibrant culture.

In announcing this new initiative, officials from Tokyoyamato City remarked, "Gifts should serve as an entry point into the community itself." Through this program, the aim is to entice people to visit local establishments, interact with residents, and engage with the city on a personal level, thereby fostering a community of fans who appreciate Tokyoyamato's unique charm.

Key Features of 'Locafull'

1. On-Site Payment for Immediate Experiences
When visiting an eligible store in Tokyoyamato, donors can instantly access experiences they are interested in through a specific app. As soon as they decide to engage in a particular service or meal, they can process their donation and payment right at that moment, ensuring immediate reward.
2. Simplicity with a Single Device
Users simply need to download the designated "Locafull" app and register their credit card in advance. At participating stores, scanning a QR code triggers an automatic calculation of the donation amount based on the selected service, streamlining the transaction into a quick and easy process.
3. Engaging and Memorable Experiences
The offerings under "Locafull" primarily revolve around experiential gifts, including meals and unique services only available in the region. This not only enriches memories of the experiences but also incorporates the sights and interactions with local people into the experience of giving back.

How to Use 'Locafull'

Participation is simple:
1. Download the "Locafull" app.
2. Register a credit card.
3. When checking out at an eligible store, inform the staff that you will be paying through "Locafull," then scan the QR code, and you're set!

The donation amount will automatically be calculated to reflect 30% of the provided price (service price), ensuring fairness and clarity. For instance, a service worth 3,000 yen would convert to a donation of around 10,000 yen.

Eligible stores include Sundry Bakery, Chosuiko Toriyama, KISAKI, HEXION, and more will be added progressively.

Future Prospects and Community Growth

Tokyoyamato City is committed to expanding this initiative by encouraging a more diverse range of local businesses to participate, thereby enhancing the offerings of experiential gifts. The goal is to create a community that leaves visitors saying, "I want to come back!" and, "I want to recommend this place!" through Furusato Tax.

In the words of city representatives, "We hope that through this initiative, we can convey the 'living charm' of our city that has often gone unrecognized. May this endeavor forge wonderful connections between those supporting Tokyoyamato and the hardworking businesses within it."

Explore the official website for more information and to download the application: Locafull.