Bokyu Summit 2025 in Fujimi City — event report

On Saturday, 18 October 2025, we held Bokyu Summit 2025 with the cooperation of Fujimi City. The summit brought together government, nonprofits, residents, businesses and educators for learning and dialogue around the principle of preparing before hardship strikes.

The Mayor of Fujimi City attended the opening and spoke about the importance of mutual support involving residents and community organizations as well as government. His message, together with his appreciation for our collaboration to date, reaffirmed the foundation of our partnership. We renewed our commitment to deepening that relationship and helping Bokyu take root in local culture.

People of different ages and backgrounds came from inside and outside the city to discuss the meaning and social significance of Bokyu. Many said they had learned that poverty prevention matters alongside disaster preparedness, and that it provides knowledge essential for navigating life. Participants welcomed the idea of preventing financial hardship as a new area of learning for residents.

The program included a workshop by entertainer Inoue Point. Participants took notes as he shared practical tips about reward points with humor. Feedback described the session as easy to understand, full of discoveries and a chance to consider what each person could do in their own life.

Bokyu activities for parents and children were also well received. Participants said the exercises prompted them to reconsider their spending, and that calculating how much they needed to save helped them recognize unrealistic plans and make adjustments. The Yadokari support estimator was praised for offering reassurance and practical value. A Hello Work employment service staff member said they wanted to use it immediately in their support work.

Survey responses showed that many participants were drawn by curiosity about the new concept of Bokyu. Some had learned about the event through the city newsletter, while others expressed pride that their city was taking the initiative. Suggestions included reaching people who are less likely to receive information and using approaches that are easy for older people to understand. We see these as important priorities.

Based on this feedback, the Institute will continue improving communication and accessibility, developing programs suited to different generations and circumstances, and gradually expanding Yadokari’s functions and reach across Japan. Together with Fujimi City and other local governments and community organizations, we will keep working to make Bokyu part of local culture.

Junichi Inoue’s blog also covers the event.

Read Junichi Inoue’s report on Bokyu Summit 2025 (external site, Japanese)