Japanese municipalities launch digital premium gift certificate programs

Various Japanese municipalities are launching digital premium gift certificate programs to stimulate local economies through cashless payment platforms.

PayPay has announced new initiatives for late 2026 involving several regions. In Adachi, Tokyo, residents can purchase 5,200 yen worth of vouchers for 4,000 yen. Fujieda, Shizuoka, will offer 5,000 yen in vouchers for 4,000 yen, while Ikeda, Osaka, will provide 7,000 yen in vouchers for 5,000 yen. These programs are subject to purchase limits and specific usage periods.

In Hioki, Kagoshima, a digital voucher program via the ‘Pay Don’ app will offer a 30% premium. Residents can purchase 6,500 yen worth of vouchers for 5,000 yen, with an additional 10% point return on usage. The Hioki program is scheduled to run from October to December 2026.