Japanese municipalities launch premium gift certificate programs

Various Japanese municipalities have announced the issuance of premium digital and paper gift certificates to support households against rising living costs.

In Nara City, all resident households are eligible for relief. Child-rearing households can purchase 15,000 yen worth of digital certificates for 10,000 yen, while other households can purchase 13,000 yen worth of paper certificates for 10,000 yen. Applications for Nara City begin in mid-September 2026.

Several other regions are launching PayPay-based premium digital certificates starting in October 2026. Notable programs include:

• Iruma City, Saitama: Offers up to 20,000 yen in total benefits through a lottery system. • Oshu City, Iwate: Provides 4,000 yen in value for a 3,000 yen purchase. • Edogawa City, Tokyo: Offers up to 10,000 yen in benefits via a lottery system. • Daigo Town, Ibaraki: Provides 5,500 yen in value for a 5,000 yen purchase. • Kurayoshi City, Tottori: Offers 6,000 yen in value for a 5,000 yen purchase. • Karatsu City, Saga: Provides 6,000 yen in value for a 5,000 yen purchase. • Komono Town, Mie: Offers 6,000 yen in value for a 5,000 yen purchase.