Beyond 'Value for Money': Delivering Regional Charm. 'Furusato Nozei Gochiso Award 2026' Returns

LOCUS BRiDGE LLC (Headquarters: Kitamoto, Saitama; Representatives: Keisuke Kurose, Hiroshi Hayashi), in collaboration with Island Inc., which operates the review site 'Otoriyose Net,' will host the 'Furusato Nozei Gochiso Award 2026.'

This award aims to highlight 'region-specific food,' the 'challenges faced by producers and businesses,' and the 'co-creation between local governments and regional businesses' born through the Furusato Nozei (hometown tax) system.

In its inaugural year, 146 gifts from across Japan were entered, ranging from meat and seafood to processed foods and sweets. The judging process goes beyond popularity, evaluating the stories behind why products are made in specific regions, their cultural background, and the efforts of the producers. Winners reported that the award served as a great opportunity to gain recognition and have their non-monetary value appreciated.

This year, the scale of the event will be expanded to promote more 'gifts that connect to the future of the region,' moving beyond mere donation amounts or 'value for money.'

The Furusato Nozei market continues to grow, reaching approximately 1.27 trillion yen in fiscal 2024. While the market expands, issues such as heated competition for gifts and point-based incentives have been raised. LOCUS BRiDGE views Furusato Nozei as a gateway to understanding regions and a mechanism to connect local industries to the future. Consequently, this award prioritizes regional uniqueness, producer passion, and sustainability.

Applications are open from June 1 to August 25, 2026, with an awards ceremony scheduled for November 12, 2026, in Shibuya, Tokyo.