Tokyo's Higashiyamato City Launches Innovative Local Payment Tax App 'Rokefuru'

Higashiyamato City Introduces 'Rokefuru'

Higashiyamato City in Tokyo will be the first in Japan to implement the innovative local payment hometown tax application 'Rokefuru', set to launch on September 5, 2025. Developed by Loketoku, a company based in Shibuya, Tokyo, this app enables users to convert their local spending—while visiting the city—into donations, receiving instant rewards in return.

What is 'Rokefuru'?

'Rokefuru', available for download via the App Store and Google Play, allows both residents and non-residents visiting Higashiyamato to make donations through their purchases at local restaurants, shops, and experience providers. By scanning a QR code at various locations in the city, users can pay for their meals or shopping while simultaneously making a contribution to the local community and receiving instant rewards such as products, experiences, or services.

The simplicity of the local payment system paired with the immediate reward mechanism signifies a major leap in the traditional method of hometown tax contributions, which usually involved delayed shipment of rewards after online donations.

Key Features of Local Payment Hometown Tax

- Immediate Gratification: Users receive their rewards on the spot, eliminating any waiting periods involved in previous methods.
- Experiential Rewards: Donations can lead to unique local experiences, such as cultural activities and craft resources, enriching visitors’ engagement.
- Natural Donation Pathway: The integration with tourism, commuting, and shopping activities fosters a natural increase in donations during visitors' stays.
- Economic Circulation: The donation amounts directly support local businesses, positively impacting the regional economy immediately.

Why Higashiyamato?

Situated about 30 km from central Tokyo, Higashiyamato City is known for its rich history and natural beauty, boasting sites such as the historic Toyokashima Shrine and the lush Tama Lake. The area thrives with local farmers' markets, traditional shopping streets, and a variety of restaurants and craft stores, creating a tight-knit community feel despite its proximity to urban Tokyo.

The recent shift in Japan's hometown tax contributions—from primarily receiving specialty goods to incorporating experiences and social contributions—coupled with the upcoming reforms in town taxes expected in October 2025, make Higashiyamato's adoption of a local payment system particularly timely. This strategy not only aims to boost the city's economic resilience but also attempts to cultivate return visitors who become integral supports of the local economy.

Service Overview

- Launch Date: September 5, 2025
- Service Area: Within Higashiyamato City for local award contributors (with plans for future expansion).
- How to use 'Rokefuru' in 3 Easy Steps:

1. Download the 'Rokefuru' app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. At participating stores, scan the QR code during checkout.
3. Enter the total on the app, which calculates the contribution automatically and completes the payment, allowing rewards to be collected instantly.

Initial Participating Stores

- Sansan Bakery: A community-focused bakery offering fresh bread every morning.
- Chosui-ki Toriyama: A Japanese restaurant near Tama Lake where you can enjoy local ingredients in a natural setting.
- KISAKI: An Italian restaurant committed to organic and additive-free ingredients, popular among families and couples.
- HEXION: A leather workshop offering opportunities to learn local crafts while creating bags and small items.

Societal Impact and Anticipated Outcomes

The implementation of 'Rokefuru' as the first of its kind in the country exemplifies a new model for urban proximity cities, promoting tourism and increasing citizen engagement with the community.

- Promoting Tourism: This initiative encourages repeat visitors and local supporters by enriching their experiences through interaction with the city’s offerings.
- Stabilizing Business Revenues: Businesses can enhance revenue and attract new customers through immediate donations.
- Enhancing Local Brands: By transforming services into promotional rewards, it improves the visibility and strength of the local brand.

Future Plans

- Expansion: Following the initial rollout, collaborations with lodging and cultural institutions are expected post-December 2025.
- Regional Collaboration: Partnerships with surrounding cities like Tachikawa, Kodaira, and Musashimurayama will build a broader donation model, inviting more tourism within the Tama region.

Frequently Asked Questions about 'Rokefuru'

1. Is the app free to use?
- Yes, the app is free (excluding communication charges). You only need to pay the donation amount.
2. How can I pay through the app?
- Link your credit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, Diners) within the app for transactions.
3. Who can use 'Rokefuru'?
- Anyone, including tourists, commuters, and local residents not registered in Higashiyamato City.

Comments from Officials

The Mayor of Higashiyamato emphasized, "Our city taking the lead in introducing 'Rokefuru' marks a significant step towards broadening our community and economy, aiming to increase awareness and visits to Higashiyamato."

Maki Yanada, CEO of Loketoku, expressed, "We are excited about our app's launch in Higashiyamato, aiming to create a sustainable economic circle. By linking local experiences directly to donations, we’re reshaping contributions into more meaningful engagements for both visitors and local businesses."

Download 'Rokefuru' Here

For more information about Loketoku:

- Company Name: Loketoku Co., Ltd.
- Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
- Established: February 2024
- Contact for Inquiries: [email protected]

Through 'Rokefuru', Higashiyamato City is not just enhancing its donation mechanisms but also charting a path for effective community involvement and economic recovery.