#Japan #Saitama #SaiCoin #Saitama City #Rakuten Card

Saitama City Expands Local Currency Charging with Rakuten Card

Saitama City has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its community app by introducing a new charging method for its local currency, known as 'Saicoin.' Starting from May 28, 2025, residents will have the option to charge their Saicoin using a Rakuten Card. This addition to the app is part of an ongoing effort to improve financial engagement in the community by facilitating smoother transactions for purchases at local eateries, supermarkets, and even for paying taxes.

The integration of Rakuten Card charging not only meets the demands of the local population by expanding payment options but also positions Saitama as a pioneer in the use of digital currency within Japan. The Saitama City Community App, which was unveiled in July 2024, acts as a one-stop platform for accessing both government and private services, enhancing convenience for its users.

New Features of Saicoin Charging

The new charging feature through Rakuten Card aims to foster economic activity and support local businesses. To use this feature, app users need to upgrade their application to the latest version. Additionally, it's important to note that users must authenticate using a My Number Card to charge Saicoin. Residents can charge amounts ranging from 1,000 to 49,000 yen, though financial institutions may impose additional limits.

It is crucial to highlight that not all types of Rakuten Cards, such as the American Express variants, can be used for charging Saicoin. Therefore, residents should verify their cards before proceeding.

As an incentive, users charging Saicoin will receive 'Tamapon' points, which are granted at a rate of 3% of the charged amount, adding further value to the charging experience. Charges at designated ATMs will also earn users 2% in Tamapon points.

Collaboration with Piazza Community App

In a complementary development, Saitama City’s app has also initiated a collaboration with the community-based Piazza app. Starting May 14, 2025, a dedicated timeline for every district in Saitama has been established on Piazza, allowing users to easily exchange information pertaining to their specific neighborhoods. This integration is aimed at enhancing communication among residents and fostering community spirit.

Piazza allows users to inquire about local issues anonymously, share events, and even facilitate the reuse of goods among neighbors, all while keeping users informed about safety measures and government announcements. Local organizations and businesses are encouraged to use this platform to connect with residents and share important information.

Features of the Saitama City Community App

The Saitama City Community App, developed on the Yomusubi platform, consolidates various administrative services into a single application, making it the go-to tool for residents seeking to interact with both local government and businesses. The app provides users with functionalities including:

• - Saicoin: An electronic currency that can be charged through ATMs or bank accounts, usable at all participating merchants.
• - Tamapon: Loyalty points awarded for community activities and Saicoin charges, redeemable at most partner stores.

This innovative approach to linking government services and business transactions aims not only to simplify processes but also to stimulate the local economy by promoting digital currency.

In conclusion, as Saitama City continues to grow and adapt to the needs of its residents, the introduction of the Rakuten Card charging option enhances financial flexibility and further supports local commerce while the partnership with the Piazza app provides a robust community engagement tool. This holistic approach embodies Saitama's commitment to leveraging technology for economic and social enrichment in the region.