#Japan #Ota #Ota Ward #Densan #AtoFuru

Ota Ward Enters a New Era of Hometown Taxation with AtoFuru

In a groundbreaking move, Ota Ward, located in Tokyo, has partnered with Densan Co., Ltd., to introduce the nation's first "after-donation" hometown tax system known as "AtoFuruⓇ". This initiative aims to revitalize local consumption by allowing visitors to convert their spending into donations, ensuring that Ota Ward can enhance local services and reduce revenue losses from tax outflows.

Understanding the Need for AtoFuru

Ota Ward has faced significant economic challenges, losing approximately 65 billion yen in tax revenue in the fiscal year 2025. Since 2015, the area has lost an astounding total of around 345 billion yen due to the traditional hometown tax system's inefficiencies. Such declines threaten the quality of services available to residents. To counteract this trend, Ota Ward officials decided to explore innovative approaches to expand opportunities for donations. This led to the selection of AtoFuru, a program that allows even small local businesses to participate without incurring additional costs.

Leveraging Unique Local Traits

Ota Ward is known for its vibrant local economy, encompassing Haneda Airport, which serves as a major gateway to Japan. This area is home to numerous manufacturing industries and attracts both tourists and business travelers. With an array of offerings including dining, accommodation, and experiences, Ota Ward sees continual regional consumption from both visitors and residents. By utilizing AtoFuru, Ota Ward aims to transform this consumption into meaningful contributions to the local economy, creating a sustainable loop of giving.

What is AtoFuru?

AtoFuru is designed to allow travelers to turn receipts from meals, stays, and activities into hometown tax donations after returning home. Visitors can select gift items worth approximately 30% of the donation amount and later contribute the remaining balance. This model provides a refreshing way of engaging with local communities, strengthening the bond between Ota Ward and its visitors.

A Competitive Edge in Tokyo

By becoming the first municipality in the Tokyo metropolitan area to adopt the AtoFuru program, Ota Ward sets an example for other cities. This initiative is not just a temporary tourism gimmick; it aims to forge long-term connections between the area and its visitors, ensuring the direct consumption translates into contributions that bolster Ota Ward’s diverse and appealing offerings.I

Future Outlook

The launch of AtoFuru is expected to reinvigorate the local economy, providing a sustainable funding model that supports essential services. The ward plans to actively promote this initiative, showcasing Ota Ward's unique attractions to the broader audience and encouraging more people to engage in local spending. This could potentially turn into a model for other regions to follow, paving the way for a new approach to utilizing tourism to support local economies.

Want to Know More?

For further details about the AtoFuru program and how to participate, you can visit the following links:

• - Ota Ward Hometown Tax Page
• - AtoFuru Service Overview
• - Follow AtoFuru on social media for the latest news: X, Instagram, Facebook

If you represent a local government considering adopting AtoFuru, there are dedicated resources designed to assist municipalities in making this transition. Visit the municipal page for more info.

Conclusion

The introduction of the AtoFuru program in Ota Ward signals an important shift in how local governments can engage with both residents and visitors. By facilitating a new way of contributing to local needs through consumption, Ota Ward is not just addressing financial challenges—it's building a more connected community in the process.