We previously reported on news regarding Japan's ">Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) system. Typically, hometowns offer gifts as a token of appreciation, mainly local specialties or unique products. Recently, in addition to anime IP merchandise, there has been an increasing number of interesting return gifts, such as the ">Japan Self-Defense Forces' dedicated combat shovel, which unexpectedly spurred a wave of tax donations.
Recently, Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, unveiled its Furusato Nozei return gifts, surprisingly featuring a "Lolita Hōchō Kitchen Knife." This item requires a 500,000 JPY Furusato Nozei donation to acquire, sparking heated discussion among Japanese netizens.
This "Lolita Hōchō Kitchen Knife" has actually been available for several years, having first generated buzz upon its release in 2016. It is produced locally in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, by "Banshu Miki Uchi Hamono," a region with a long history of blade craftsmanship, where the cutlery produced is designated as a national traditional craft.
Initially, in addition to the "Lolita Hōchō Kitchen Knife," there was also a "Gothic Lolita Hōchō Kitchen Knife," making a total of two models. Crafted with traditional blade artistry, the knife bodies were specially shaped, featuring unique patterns and special handles, making them inherently expensive.
▼ The two knife models released at the time.
Although it's meant to promote the local traditional art of the hometown, the practicality of this knife doesn't seem to be widely recognized, possibly due to its appearance not resembling a traditional knife and its high price. Some netizens also believe that since it's a national traditional craft, perhaps there are genuinely few people who need it. The official statement indicates that one citizen has already acquired it, and more will be prepared for those who desire it, encouraging support for local development.
It can only be said that Japanese localities are truly dedicated to their local tax revenue. With the advent of Japan's Furusato Nozei, many agencies specializing in Furusato Nozei applications have emerged, forming a new industry.
These agencies print dazzling catalogs of diverse return gifts and create simple, clear application websites to attract customers. Perhaps such an approach can make more people feel that paying taxes to the government offers a more tangible sense of return.
