#Japan #Brain-Friendly App #Abashiri #Health Points

New Health Initiative in Abashiri City

In a pioneering move, Abashiri City in Hokkaido has introduced an innovative health points program named 'Abashiri WALK+'. This initiative, which started on July 15, 2025, aims to improve physical and mental health among its citizens using the 'Brain-Friendly App' developed by Bespla Inc. Under the program, residents aged 18 and above can earn health points by completing various health-related activities, including reaching target step counts, maintaining a balanced diet, and participating in city-required events.

Overview of the Abashiri Health Points Program

The 'Abashiri WALK+' program is designed to encourage the local community to engage effortlessly in health-promoting activities. By reaching specified health goals, residents can accumulate points that can be redeemed for 'Abashiri Health Support Vouchers,' redeemable at local businesses. This approach not only fosters better health habits but also promotes civic engagement and supports the local economy.

Residents can participate from the age of 18, as long as they have a smartphone. The registration process is simple: download the 'Brain-Friendly App' (available on both iPhone and Android) and select the 'Abashiri WALK+ Application' option from the city menu. Further details can be found on the city’s official website.

How to Accumulate Points?

Participants can earn points by engaging in activities recommended by the app or by attending events specified by Abashiri City. This encourages a fun, accessible approach to maintaining health. As users accumulate points, they can exchange them for vouchers, facilitating shopping for groceries at participating local stores, which in turn stimulates the area's economic vitality.

Furthermore, the use of digital management for the program reduces the need for paper ledgers and manual processes, improving administrative efficiency for the local government. The integration of health points with local commerce creates a beneficial cycle — promoting healthier lifestyles while boosting community economies.

Understanding the 'Brain-Friendly App'

The 'Brain-Friendly App' is built on research conducted by the renowned Karolinska Institute in Sweden, focusing on the interplay between exercise, cognitive training, and nutrition. The app serves as a comprehensive tool that allows users to track activities across multiple dimensions, including physical exercise, cognitive challenges, and dietary planning. Launched in 2017, the app has received numerous accolades and is widely recognized for its significant impact on promoting public health.

A Model for Future Health Initiatives

The 'Brain-Friendly App and Health Points Service' exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to promoting public health and stimulating local economies. Notably, over 20 municipalities across Japan have adopted this service model, highlighting the increasing importance of integrating technology into public health initiatives. Whether in urban areas like Tokyo or smaller cities like Abashiri, this service offers a scalable framework to enhance community health and well-being.

In conclusion, Abashiri's efforts to promote health through the 'Abashiri WALK+' program signify a noteworthy advancement in municipal health services, encouraging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles while invigorating their community's economic landscape. Exploring how such initiatives can spread to other regions may provide valuable insights into advancing public health on a broader scale.

For more information, visit the official Abashiri City website: Health Points Project Announcement.