#Japan #Furumachi Pay #Value Design #Miyaki Town

Miyaki Town's Innovative Adoption of Furumachi Pay

Miyaki Town, located in Saga Prefecture, has made a significant leap towards modernization by introducing Furumachi Pay, a local payment-based donation service designed to streamline contributions to hometown taxes. Managed by Value Design, a subsidiary of Paycrowd Holdings, this initiative aims to cultivate a supportive environment for local donations while enhancing the town’s appeal to both residents and visitors alike.

Starting May 13, 2025, residents and visitors can make donations via the Furumachi Pay platform, which offers a convenient way to contribute to the community while enjoying its local attractions. Through this service, donors will receive digital coupons that can be used instantly at participating businesses, bridging the gap between support and local engagement.

The essence of Furumachi Pay goes beyond just providing a donation method. It represents a shift in how hometown tax incentives are perceived, broadening the spectrum of return gifts from tangible items to experiences and services, attracting a diverse set of donors. It lays the groundwork for a revitalized local economy in Miyaki Town, especially as it embraces its natural surroundings that have become increasingly popular as a living area.

A Miyaki Town official has expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "We want visitors to experience the charm of Miyaki Town firsthand, and Furumachi Pay allows them to make donations right on the spot and enjoy rewards in the form of digital coupons. We hope it will encourage repeat visits."

Initially, the service will be available at two locations: the picturesque Sansui Country Club, ideal for golf enthusiasts, and a survival game facility for adventure lovers. This limited rollout will lay the groundwork for future expansions, as the town aims to attract more businesses to join the Furumachi Pay network.

Value Design is fully committed to enhancing the attractiveness of municipalities through innovative solutions that connect them with visitors. By promoting Furumachi Pay as a bridge between communities and tourists, the company seeks to catalyze local revitalization efforts and encourage new donor interactions.

About Miyaki Town

Miyaki Town is ideally situated in the central part of Northern Kyushu, functioning as a crucial area within the Chikushi Plain, known for its agricultural richness. Surrounded by a bountiful natural environment, it offers excellent access to urban areas in Fukuoka Prefecture. The town boasts seasonal attractions such as sunflower fields, vibrant autumn foliage on Mount Takatori, and traditional events that reflect its cultural heritage, including the ceremonial flag-raising festival at Ayabe Hachiman Shrine.

Notably, the town is reputed for its local specialties like onions, strawberries, and asparagus, adding to its charm and appeal. Additionally, activities such as pottery tours at Shiraishi-yaki kilns and brewery visits at Tenbuki Sake Brewery offer cultural experiences that heighten visitors' connection to the region.

Understanding Furumachi Pay

Furumachi Pay is designed for individuals who want to make a difference in their communities. By scanning QR codes located at local businesses and leisure facilities, users can readily donate to hometown taxes and receive digital coupons that can be utilized immediately at those venues. This system not only fosters community pride but also features local dining, camping, and experiential activities as unique areas for donation engagement. It’s a forward-thinking approach that redefines traditional hometown tax donation practices, prioritizing the essence of community support over just returns.

Official Partnership with Saga Newspaper Media Holdings

In a strategic move to bolster regional engagement, Value Design has signed an official partnership with Saga Newspaper Media Holdings effective July 8, 2024. Through this collaboration, they seek to promote Furumachi Pay across Saga Prefecture and facilitate connections between various municipalities to maximize its outreach. By focusing on local restaurants and entertainment venues, they aim to diversify the donor base, including both tourists and local commuters.

In summary, Miyaki Town’s introduction of Furumachi Pay marks a crucial step toward blending traditional contributions with modern convenience, enticing both locals and visitors to engage in the town’s growth and prosperity. Through this initiative, Miyaki aims to ensure that its cultural heritage and natural beauty thrive for generations to come.