Hioki City, Kagoshima Prefecture, in partnership with Kayac Inc., has launched a new initiative to address depopulation by fostering social engagement. The project involves introducing the local digital currency “Machi no Coin” in both Hioki City and its virtual counterpart “Neo Hioki” in the metaverse, aiming to connect people inside and outside the region.
A Cutting-Edge Initiative Connecting the Metaverse and the Real World for Regional Revitalization
Hioki City in Kagoshima Prefecture faces significant challenges due to depopulation and an aging population. According to the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, the city’s population is expected to halve by 2065, necessitating new strategies for sustainable regional development.
In response, Hioki City launched the “Hiokito Project” in 2021 to engage with people outside the region. On September 24, 2024, the city took this a step further by partnering with Kayac Inc. to introduce the digital local currency “Machi no Coin” as part of a groundbreaking project. This initiative aims to bridge the real world with the metaverse, linking the city with “Neo Hioki,” a virtual space that mirrors Hioki City, encouraging participation from both residents and people outside the region.
“Machi no Coin” is a community currency that rewards users for contributing to the local community, and can be used for unique local experiences. It has been implemented in 27 regions across Japan, but this marks the first time the currency will be used in conjunction with a metaverse platform. Starting in October 2024, users will be able to use the currency both in Hioki City and in the metaverse, creating a new form of engagement that transcends the physical and digital realms.
The project is expected not only to encourage migration and social engagement but also to contribute to the sustainable growth of the region, making it a pioneering example of regional revitalization through digital innovation. The future development of this initiative is highly anticipated.
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