Japan to Launch “Furusato Resident” System（Hometown Affiliation Program)

On June 3, 2025, the Japanese government unveiled a new strategic vision for regional revitalization. At the heart of this ambitious plan is the creation of a “Furusato Resident” (ふるさと住民) system — a unique initiative aimed at strengthening emotional and economic ties between urban residents and rural communities, without requiring people to physically relocate.

This move is part of a broader effort to combat Japan’s demographic challenges, including a declining population, the aging of rural regions, and the overwhelming population concentration in Tokyo and other major cities. Rather than relying solely on traditional migration policies, Japan is shifting its focus toward flexible, participatory models of engagement.

In fully English terms, the system could also be described as a “Hometown Affiliation Program”, “Remote Community Membership Program”, or “Voluntary Local Residency System” — all highlighting the idea of choosing a meaningful, non-residential connection with a community.

🌏 What Is the Furusato Resident System?

The Furusato Resident System allows individuals who do not officially live in a municipality — including frequent visitors, teleworkers, volunteers, and donors to furusato nozei (hometown tax) — to register themselves as unofficial residents of their chosen local area.

This new system is designed to support Japan’s effort to increase the “related population” (kankeijinko), a term that refers to people who actively engage with a region without being full-time residents. The concept recognizes that physical presence is no longer the only measure of belonging in a digital and mobile world.

🎯 Goals of the System

• Target: 10 million Furusato Residents within the next 10 years
• Main Objective: Alleviate overpopulation in the Tokyo metropolitan area by encouraging stronger ties with Japan’s rural communities
• Secondary Objectives:
  • Encourage economic activity and innovation in non-urban areas
  • Promote local culture, tourism, and volunteerism
  • Strengthen disaster response networks by involving remote supporters

📱 How Will It Work?

The Japanese government envisions a smartphone-based registration platform that will allow users to seamlessly engage with their chosen communities. The basic process includes:

1. User Registration: Anyone who has a continued or meaningful connection with a rural region — through travel, remote work, donations, or community involvement — can apply via a mobile app.
2. Digital Certificate Issuance: Local governments will issue a certificate of “Furusato Residency,” acknowledging the individual’s bond with the community.
3. Exclusive Benefits & Community Perks:
   • Access to special events, town updates, and digital newsletters
   • Discounts on regional products and services
   • Invitations to participate in local decision-making or community development programs

The system may also integrate with existing hometown tax donation systems, allowing “Furusato Residents” to manage their contributions and receive region-specific perks.

🏞️ Why It Matters

For decades, Japan’s rural areas have faced steep challenges, including aging populations, labor shortages, and economic stagnation. While various relocation incentives have been attempted, this new initiative offers an inclusive alternative: recognizing and empowering those who support rural areas remotely.

This is particularly impactful for:

• Urban Japanese citizens with nostalgic or familial ties to the countryside
• Foreign residents of Japan who frequently visit or feel invested in specific towns or prefectures
• International supporters and donors who appreciate Japanese culture, food, and nature, and wish to be part of sustainable tourism or regional revitalization

By creating a new kind of membership model — akin to a “Community Affiliation Registry” or “Local Connection Residency System” — Japan is redefining the idea of local citizenship in the 21st century.

🗣️ Statement from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba

Prime Minister Ishiba stated:

“We aim to create regions that attract the choice of young people and women. In addition to changing mindsets, we will focus on smart agriculture, improved productivity in SMEs, and creating an economy where rural Japan can thrive.”

His remarks signal a broader strategic approach — not just repopulating rural areas, but transforming them into innovation hubs capable of sustaining modern lifestyles and employment opportunities.

❓ FAQs: Furusato Resident System

Q: Do I need to move to become a Furusato Resident?

A: No. You do not have to live there permanently. You can live anywhere in Japan — or even abroad — and still register.

Q: Will I have to pay local taxes or change my legal address?

A: No. This is not a legal change of residence (juminhyo). You are not required to pay resident taxes or relocate officially.

Q: Can foreign residents of Japan participate?

A: Yes. Foreign nationals with a valid visa, residence status, or meaningful connection to a specific community are expected to be eligible. Even non-residents abroad who have strong regional engagement may be able to participate, depending on local rules.

Q: What are the benefits for Furusato Residents?

A: Benefits may include:

• Discounts on local specialty goods or tourism services
• Early access to local events or experiences
• Insider updates from local governments
• A chance to build meaningful community relationships

Q: Is there any cost to register?

A: At this stage, registration is expected to be free. However, individual municipalities may introduce optional services or packages in the future.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Japan’s Furusato Resident System represents an innovative and flexible approach to civic engagement. In a world where digital tools and remote work are reshaping how we connect, this system proposes a new model of belonging — one based on relationship and intention rather than geography.

Whether you’re a tourist who keeps returning to your favorite onsen town, a donor who loves supporting agricultural regions, or a digital nomad who wants to connect more deeply with local culture, the Furusato Resident System — or what could be called a “Voluntary Regional Engagement Program” — offers a way to become part of Japan’s evolving rural future.

Stay tuned as the system rolls out and municipalities begin to customize their approaches to attract Furusato Residents from all walks of life. 🏡📲