Rising Local Charm: Rakuten to Host First Ever Furusato Tax Festival

Rakuten Furusato Tax Festival: A Celebration of Local Culture

In a landmark event, Rakuten Group will bring together over 170 municipalities from all over Japan for the first-ever Furusato Tax Festival at Tokyo Big Sight on September 14-15, 2025. This festival aims to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Rakuten Furusato Tax portal, thanking its supporters and creating a platform to foster a deep connection between donors and local communities across the nation.

The event will be a vibrant showcase emphasizing the theme "Empowering Japan from the Locals!" Expect to immerse yourself in both the charm and offerings of diverse regions across the country, as attendees will have direct opportunities to engage with local specialties and products. Entry to this monumental gathering is completely free, making it accessible to everyone.

The festival will feature various booths where each participating municipality will display unique attractions and provide opportunities to experience local specialties first-hand. Some booths will allow visitors to sample gourmet return gifts like local delicacies, beverages, and more. Food trucks featuring locally-famous products such as seafood and meat will be exhibiting and selling live, further enhancing the culinary experience.

In addition to food, the festival promises an array of entertainment options. Attendees can look forward to engaging stage events featuring beloved local mascots and celebrities that will create a lively atmosphere. Also, qualified financial planners will be on hand to conduct informative sessions about the Furusato Tax system, catering especially to newcomers wanting to learn more about contributing to their preferred localities.

There will be plenty of family-friendly activities, including a dedicated kids' zone where traditional crafts can be explored and played with, as well as a "Furusato Message Board" for visitors wishing to send encouraging notes to their selected municipalities. Visitors can also participate in a digital stamp rally, which rewards them with entries into a raffle boasting a variety of regional specialty gifts.

For those new to the donation process, the festival is equipped with a "Furusato Tax Practical Corner" to explain donation methods step-by-step, ensuring that even first-time participants can feel comfortable and confident in engaging with the Furusato Tax system. This initiative is part of Rakuten's broader goal to promote understanding and enhance the development of Furusato Tax contributions, thereby empowering local communities and populace across Japan.

Join us at the Rakuten Furusato Tax Festival to celebrate, explore, and connect with the incredible essence of Japan’s regions through this one-of-a-kind experience!