Story perspectives

Surge in Hometown Donations as Reward Point Ban Looms

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Japan's furusato nozei hometown donation system sees increased sign-ups ahead of new government rules banning reward points for donations next month.
Rakuten hosts an event at Tokyo Big Sight featuring gifts from over 170 participating municipalities.
Donations via Rakuten's website doubled in early August compared to last year.
Amazon Japan also conducted a similar promotion in Tokyo.
Internal affairs minister Seiichiro Murakami cautioned against rising reward points, while Rakuten has sued the government over the ban.

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Story summary

Japan's furusato nozei hometown donation system sees increased sign-ups ahead of new government rules banning reward points for donations next month.
Rakuten hosts an event at Tokyo Big Sight featuring gifts from over 170 participating municipalities.
Donations via Rakuten's website doubled in early August compared to last year.
Amazon Japan also conducted a similar promotion in Tokyo.
Internal affairs minister Seiichiro Murakami cautioned against rising reward points, while Rakuten has sued the government over the ban.