#Japan #Furumachi Pay #Wazuka Town #Uji Tea #Wazuka

Wazuka Town Implements Innovative Local Donation Service: Furumachi Pay

Wazuka Town, located in Kyoto Prefecture and renowned for its tea production, is embracing modern technology with the introduction of Furumachi Pay, a local donation service that allows visitors to contribute easily while enjoying the area's rich culture and offerings. Set to launch on August 12, 2025, this initiative aims to bolster community engagement and support through a cashless donation platform.

Furumachi Pay, developed by Value Design, a subsidiary of PayCrowd Holdings, transforms the traditional furusato (hometown) tax system by allowing contributors to engage in local experiences directly. Through this system, visitors can easily donate via their smartphones at designated sites, instantly receiving digital coupons redeemable at local eateries, campsites, and activity centers.

Wazuka Town, which is responsible for producing nearly half of Uji tea, desires to enhance its appeal through Furumachi Pay. According to a spokesperson from the town, the goal is to facilitate experiences that highlight the town's allure, providing an opportunity for visitors to contribute while enjoying their time in Wazuka.

Features and Facilities of Furumachi Pay

Furumachi Pay is not limited to the donation process but enhances the overall visitor experience. It aims to promote local establishments, supporting the economy while showcasing the best of what Wazuka has to offer. Currently, the service will be available at two locations: Wazuka Tea Cafe and Wazuka no Sato, a local agricultural produce market, with plans to expand to more facilities in the coming months.

1. Wazuka Tea Cafe: Offering a serene environment to enjoy local tea varieties and delicacies.
- Visit Wazuka Tea Cafe

2. Wazuka no Sato: A hub for fresh produce and local goods, perfect for those wanting to experience the agricultural heart of the town.
- Explore Wazuka no Sato

The Essence of Wazuka

Wazuka Town is not only known for its tea but also boasts an impressive landscape, including the scenic tea fields of Iijima, which have been cultivated for over 800 years. The town, also registered as a landscape asset of Kyoto, offers various experiences like tea-picking and tasting seasonal matcha sweets, attracting numerous tourists every spring.

This synergy between local culture and tourism is essential as Wazuka aims to maintain its heritage while adapting to the evolving preferences of visitors. With its membership in the