Nagano’s Suwa City Launches Digital Premium Gift Voucher Program with E-Machi Platform

In a move to boost local economy and support residents facing rising living costs, Suwa City in Nagano Prefecture has officially commenced a Digital Premium Gift Voucher program called 'SUWA Digital Tickets.' The initiative utilizes the E-Machi Platform, developed by Giftee Inc., which aims to tackle community challenges through digital solutions. This program officially launched on December 2, 2025, with a 30% premium rate on the electronic vouchers, making it a financially attractive option for the local citizens.

Launch and Operation of SUWA Digital Tickets

The SUWA Digital Tickets were created with the majority of support from the national government under the 'Key Support Local Revitalization Temporary Grant Program.' This initiative aims to help communities implement necessary measures tailored to local circumstances.

The tickets are specifically available to residents of Suwa City, allowing them to participate in an earlier lottery to acquire these vouchers. The lottery concluded on November 24, 2025, and successful applicants were provided with the opportunity to purchase these vouchers online from the dedicated Suwa City Ticket Portal.

How to Use SUWA Digital Tickets?

The SUWA Digital Ticket offers not just a saving opportunity but also a streamlined purchasing and usage experience. Residents can buy vouchers worth a total of 13,000 yen for just 10,000 yen. Two types of vouchers are included:

- Large and Small Stores Common Ticket: Valued at 7,000 yen.
- Small Store Exclusive Ticket: Valued at 6,000 yen.

These vouchers can be utilized across 200 participating stores within Suwa City, fostering local commerce. The period for using the tickets extends from December 2, 2025, until January 31, 2026.

Leveraging Technology for Convenience

The E-Machi Platform not only simplifies transactions but enhances user experience through its functionality. Users can conveniently manage their vouchers via a personal user page on the Suwa City Ticket Portal. This includes onboarding procedures for application, purchases, delivery, and even digital storage of the vouchers. The ease of the process ensures that residents can focus on shopping without the hassle often associated with physical vouchers.

To utilize the SUWA Digital Tickets, users simply scan a QR code at participating stores using a smartphone and confirm their transactions digitally. This system is not only efficient but also addresses concerns such as lost tickets and the hassle of change, making the process straightforward and user-friendly.

Continued Focus on Community Revitalization

Giftee Inc. remains committed to reviving local economies across Japan through the E-Machi Platform. The launch of the Digital Premium Gift Voucher is a testament to this commitment, promoting both convenience for consumers and robust support for local businesses. This initiative marks a second partnership with Suwa City, following the implementation of the 'Travel Tax Payment' system, which harnesses the E-Machi Platform’s solutions to further enrich local engagement and participation.

In conclusion, the SUWA Digital Ticket program reflects broader efforts to utilize digital tools to foster economic sustainability in regional communities. Through ongoing collaboration with local governments and businesses, Giftee aims to nurture connections between people and places, reinforcing the value of local experiences and economic participation.