#Japan #Furumachi Pay #Value Design #Matsumae Town #Matsumae

Matsumae Town Embraces Furumachi Pay

Matsumae Town, located at the southernmost tip of Hokkaido, has announced the introduction of the 'Furumachi Pay,' a local payment-based system for the furusato tax, under the leadership of Value Design Inc., a subsidiary of Paycloud Holdings. This initiative marks Matsumae as the 29th municipality to adopt the service. Starting April 13, 2026, residents and visitors will be able to make contributions using this innovative payment method.

About Furumachi Pay

'Furumachi Pay' is designed to broaden the scope of return gifts in the hometown tax system beyond physical items to experiences. This service not only enables easy local donations but also promotes regional revitalization by providing visitors an avenue to engage with local culture. The use of QR codes facilitates a seamless donation process at various local businesses and leisure facilities, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Value Design aims to attract more visitors to Matsumae and deepen their connections with the community through the provision of diverse experiences related to food and culture. Local officials express their hope that this will foster lasting relationships between visitors and the town, encouraging them to become fans and supporters of Matsumae.

Matsumae's Unique Characteristics

Matsumae is well known for its historical significance as the only castle town in Hokkaido featuring a Japanese-style castle, Matsumae Castle. The town boasts over 250 varieties of cherry blossoms in spring, making it a visual feast. Visitors can also explore various coastal landscapes, including the breathtaking Shirakami Cape, and indulge in local culinary delights such as tuna and seaweed.

Initial Launch Details

At the initiation of 'Furumachi Pay,' seven local businesses, primarily those selling specialty products, will accept the service. The town plans to expand the number of participating stores, creating multiple donation opportunities for visitors. As it stands, some notable venues include:

• - Yokohama-so (15 Hakata, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Michi-no-Eki Kitamaebune Matsumae (379 Karatsu, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Asami Shoten (68 Nishidate, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Hoku-yodo (64 Matsukura, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Nakamuraya (3 Matsukura, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Matsumae Bussan Kan Yoneta (57 Matsukura, Matsumae, Hokkaido)
• - Uenoya (95-2 Osawa, Matsumae, Hokkaido)

Partnership for Regional Growth

In a strategic move to bolster the 'Furumachi Pay' initiative, Value Design has entered into an official partnership with Nissenren Escot Co., Ltd., effective from July 2024. This collaboration aims to enhance the service's adoption within Hokkaido's municipalities and assist local businesses with administrative support related to payment processing.

Through this initiative, Value Design envisions a vibrant Matsumae Town where visitors can support local businesses and forge meaningful ties with the community, ultimately leading to sustainable regional revitalization.