In an effort to boost the local economy through innovative means, many local governments in Japan have established unique departments at the start of fiscal 2024. One such example is the town of Nishikawa in Yamagata Prefecture, which recently created a “kasegu” or moneymaking division to secure additional financial resources. This new division is focusing on promoting non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that allow people from outside the town to become digital citizens of Nishikawa. The head of the division, Tomohiro Ishikawa, expressed the hope that these transactions will lead to a deeper connection, with people becoming fans of the town. Furthermore, the town plans to hold in-person and virtual events to bring together Nishikawa’s digital citizens for a sense of community.
This initiative is just one example of how local governments in Japan are thinking outside the box to revitalize their economies and attract new opportunities. By embracing new technologies and creative approaches, these municipalities are looking to make a positive impact on their communities and encourage growth. It will be interesting to see how these unconventional departments continue to develop and contribute to the overall well-being of their respective regions.
As the world evolves and changes, it is crucial for local governments to adapt and find new ways to thrive. By taking risks and exploring innovative strategies, regions like Nishikawa are setting themselves up for success in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. The establishment of the “kasegu” division is just the beginning, and it will be fascinating to observe how other communities in Japan follow suit and create their own unique departments to drive economic growth and prosperity.