Hokkaido City Offers Opening Pitch Experience for One Million Yen Tax Donation

In Japan's latest Furusato Nozei initiative, Kitahiroshima City in Hokkaido has partnered with the Nippon Professional Baseball Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters to offer a unique tax donation incentive. For one million Japanese Yen donated as a Furusato Nozei gift, individuals can qualify to be the opening pitch guest for the March 23rd game against the Yokohama DeNA BayStars.

As part of this package, participants will receive a tour of ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO, which opened last year. They can even designate team legend Kensuke Tanaka as the batter or catcher for their opening pitch, and enjoy photo opportunities, autographs, and Diamond Seats with VIP viewing experience.

This collaboration not only promotes team merchandise, tickets, season passes, and stadium hot spring accommodations but also allows local governments to generate tax revenue. By offering a tangible experience in exchange for Furusato Nozei donations, Japanese cities are making the concept of paying taxes more appealing.