“Digital 本地 Currencies” are scaling rapidly across municipalities and shopping streets in 日本. Featuring unique names and benefits customized to each region, they are powerful tools for 地方 development. We explore the basics of 本地 currencies and profile success cases.

How Digital 本地 Currencies Work

A digital 本地 currency is a 支付 system restricted to a specific municipality or business district. Users typically download a dedicated smartphone app and load funds to spend at registered merchants.

• Main Goal: Keep money circulating within the 社區 to stimulate 本地 production and consumption.

Unique 地方 支付 in 日本

• Sarubobo Coin (Hida Region, Gifu): A pioneer in 本地 digital currencies, widely adopted by 居民 and tourists alike.
• Aqua Coin (Kisarazu, Chiba): Developed by a 本地 credit union and the city. Features high merchant density and integrations with 地方 events.
• Shika Pay (Nara): Deeply rooted in the 本地 社區, promoting 觀光 checkouts.

Benefits for Users

• Premium 積分 Multiplier: Often loaded with premium bonuses (e.g. 10-30% extra value on top-ups), providing better value than 現金.
• Exclusive Merchant Discounts: Participating 商店 often offer free drinks or price cuts exclusively for 本地 currency checkouts.