#Japan #Kurashiki #Rokefuru #Loketoku #Kurashiki City

Introduction of 'Rokefuru' in Kurashiki City

Kurashiki City, located in Okayama Prefecture, is set to enhance community engagement by launching a novel local payment-based hometown tax application named 'Rokefuru.' This initiative, spearheaded by Loketoku Corporation, aims to transform local spending into direct contributions to the community, allowing visitors to receive instant rewards for their donations.

Scheduled for launch on October 10, 2025, 'Rokefuru' marks Kurashiki as the first municipality in the Chugoku region to adopt this innovative approach. Through this application, tourists and residents can easily turn their purchases, experiences, and dining within the city into contributions to the region. In return, users will receive gifts immediately, fostering a seamless connection between spending and community support. Positioned as a smartphone-only application, 'Rokefuru' will be available for download via App Store and Google Play.

Understanding Local Payment-Based Hometown Tax

Traditional hometown tax systems typically require donors to engage in online contributions, with rewards sent later through mail—often leading to a lengthy wait. However, 'Rokefuru' changes this by allowing patrons to donate and receive their rewards on-site, making the experience more interactive and immediate. When users pay at participating merchants, their payments directly convert into tax donations, providing them with tangible rewards on the spot.

Key Features of 'Rokefuru'

• - Instant Gratification: Donors receive their rewards concurrently with their contributions, avoiding unnecessary delays.
• - Experience-Oriented: Encourages visitors to enjoy activities related to food, culture, and crafts as their rewards, enriching their experience.
• - Natural Integration: The app organically increases donations as people engage in tourism, commuting, or shopping within Kurashiki City.
• - Local Economic Circulation: Contributions are reflected swiftly in local business revenues, directly bolstering the regional economy.

Significance of 'Rokefuru' for Kurashiki City

Kurashiki, known for its beautiful properties and rich cultural heritage, is strategically located in southern Okayama Prefecture, with a population approximating 470,000. The city boasts several notable attractions, such as the iconic Bikan Historical Area, the globally recognized Ohara Museum of Art, and the Jeans Street in Kojima, which is marked as the birthplace of Japanese denim. Furthermore, the region excels in agriculture, producing famous fruits like muscats and white peaches, and is a prominent tourist destination, welcoming nearly 5 million visitors annually.

The trend of hometown tax donations is shifting from product acquisition to experience and local contributions, driven by a nationwide reform effective October 2025. With 'Rokefuru,' Kurashiki City aims to directly link visitor payments with donations, seamlessly integrating consumer behavior with philanthropic efforts. This approach is expected to enhance economic circulation, strengthen community ties, and improve visitor satisfaction.

Service Overview

• - Launch Date: October 10, 2025 (Friday)
• - Coverage Area: Participating businesses within Kurashiki City (with plans for gradual expansion)
• - How to Utilize:

1. Download the dedicated 'Rokefuru' application from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Register user information, including credit card details (supporting Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, Diners).
3. Inform the store that you will pay with 'Rokefuru' and scan the QR code to complete both the payment and the donation instantly, receiving your rewards at once.

Anticipated Impact and Social Importance

The introduction of 'Rokefuru' serves as a pioneering case in the Chugoku region, setting a new standard for linking tourism with economic support. Some expected outcomes include:

• - Boosting Tourism and Community Interaction: Visitors will have the chance to engage with the city's unique offerings, potentially becoming repeat attendees or supporters.
• - Stabilizing Merchant Revenue: The platform will facilitate new customer acquisition and sales enhancement through donations.
• - Enhancing Local Branding: The transformation of local attractions and services into rewards will bolster marketing efforts and boost brand recognition.

FAQ about 'Rokefuru'

• - Is there a fee to use the app?

No, downloading and utilizing the app is free (excluding communication fees).

• - What is the payment method for donations?

Users register their credit cards in the app for payments, supporting major card types.

• - Who can utilize the app?

It is available for non-residents of Kurashiki City, including tourists and temporary visitors.

• - Why does a 3,000 JPY meal result in a 10,000 JPY donation?

The hometown tax system mandates rewards must be less than 30% of the donation amount.

• - Can this be combined with delivery-based hometown tax?

Yes, both can operate concurrently.

Comments from Kurashiki City

"Through 'Rokefuru', we aim to utilize the blessings of Setouchi along with our rich history and culture, benefiting from the interactions between visitors and our community. We believe this is a significant step towards revitalizing our local economy and expanding connections within the area." says Maki Yanada, CEO of Loketoku.

To experience the multifaceted offerings of Kurashiki City and contribute to its growth, download the 'Rokefuru' app now from the App Store or Google Play.