Higashikagawa City Launches Premium Points Program with Higashikagawa Pay App

Higashikagawa City in Kagawa Prefecture is set to enhance local economic activity with the introduction of the Higashikagawa Pay app, which will launch in October 2024. This innovative approach ties in with the city's digital currency initiative, aimed at providing digital solutions to residents, boosting convenience, and evolving the local economy.

The Higashikagawa Pay program will also encompass electronic money called Higashikagawa Money, which can be recharged with cash, alongside a unique digital community point system that rewards citizens for engaging in volunteer activities.

To combat rising living costs, the city will implement a points refund campaign that offers a 30% and 20% premium based on payment amounts made via Higashikagawa Money. The premiums incentivize spending at local businesses, as points can be used as a direct exchange for purchases at participating stores, equating 1 point to 1 yen.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligible participants must verify their identity using the My Number Card through NTT Business Solutions’ e-probatio® service. Only confirmed residents of Higashikagawa City will be able to participate. For those who may find smartphone navigation challenging, dedicated support channels will be available to assist users throughout the process.

The comprehensive campaign includes:

- Premium Points Attributes:

- 30% Premium Points (up to ¥15,000 payment)
- To be utilized exclusively at small to medium-sized local stores.
- 20% Premium Points (up to ¥15,000 payment)
- Applicable at all local participating stores.

For each set, residents can apply for up to three bundles, with the total potential refund capped at:

- 30% Premium: Maximum of ¥4,500 per person.
- 20% Premium: Maximum of ¥3,000 per person.

A total cap of ¥30,000 can be spent during the designated period, allowing for a maximum refund of ¥7,500.

Key Dates

- Application Period: June 16, 2025 – June 30, 2025
- Lottery Results Announcement: July 3, 2025
- Point Refund Period: July 4, 2025 – January 29, 2026
- Point Usage Period: From point receipt until February 28, 2026

Points will be awarded once residents recharge at their nearest participating stores and make payments using Higashikagawa Money, which will grant premium points after a short processing period of about a week.

Official Stance

Higashikagawa City officials stated that the Premium Points Program aims to provide safety nets for consumers amid soaring living costs while striving to support both residents and businesses. The deployment of Higashikagawa Pay is anticipated to further enhance community life and promote digital transformation (DX) initiatives in the area.

About Felica Pocket Marketing

Felica Pocket Marketing Co., Ltd. is dedicated to revitalizing community economies and promoting citizen well-being through digital solutions tailored for municipal governments. Our offerings range from local currency initiatives to health programs and sustainability efforts, helping to foster connections among residents and local businesses.