Toyonaka City has begun issuing premium digital gift vouchers through the Machikane Point App, offering residents significant savings on local transactions. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden stemming from rising costs while energizing the local economy.
From January 7, 2026, citizens who are registered in the city's resident registry as of January 21, 2026, can apply for these vouchers. Each gift voucher is valued at 7,000 yen but can be purchased for only 5,000 yen, amounting to a substantial 40% premium. Each resident can buy up to four vouchers, effectively spending 20,000 yen for a total worth of 28,000 yen, thus providing a strong incentive for consumption within the community.
The total number of vouchers available is set at 400,000, totaling an impressive 2.8 billion yen—this includes 800 million yen designated as premium funds. This strategy is part of Toyonaka City's broader efforts to promote digital adoption and support local business through increased spending.
To efficiently manage the redemption process, applications for the vouchers will be conducted via a lottery system if request numbers surpass the available supply. Eligible applicants must remain residents of Toyonaka as of the specified date in January 2026.
The procurement window for these vouchers spans from January 29 to February 6, 2026, and payments can be made through credit cards or cash at designated ATMs. The utilization period for these vouchers extends until May 31, 2026, ensuring ample opportunity for residents to engage in local commerce.
In addition to these gift vouchers, families raising children can benefit further. Each qualifying household that purchases the premium vouchers will also receive 3,000 points on the Machikane Point system. These additional points are allocated to households with children aged 18 or younger, registered in the city as of April 1, 2026.
The program emphasizes the importance of digital initiatives not solely for economic growth but also for community engagement, urging residents to participate in local events and activities to earn points that encourage spending at local businesses. The Machikane Point App serves as a versatile platform, managing various forms of points and digital currency applicable for purchases at participating stores.
Overall, this initiative, supported by Felica Pocket Marketing Co., aims to not just stimulate economic activity in Toyonaka but also to enhance community connectivity through digital solutions. With educational efforts guiding residents toward adopting digital payment methods, the city hopes to foster a more engaged and technologically apt populace.
Moreover, user information sessions are planned to provide residents with details on how to leverage these opportunities effectively. The city encourages transparency and participation among its citizens, enhancing their experiences of contributing to local governance while benefitting from the city’s offerings.
For detailed instructions on applying for the vouchers, residents can refer to the Toyonaka City official website, which provides resources encompassing comprehensive guides on the Machikane Point App and its usage.
The broader goal of these endeavors by Felica Pocket Marketing is to create lasting improvements in community well-being, economic vitality, and a stronger sense of belonging among residents, ensuring that the wealth generated circulates through their local economy, enhancing both livelihoods and community ties.