Japanese city takes action against overtourism with increased accommodation tax

Proceeding from its article, Indian Defence Review describes that Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, is taking a proactive stance against the growing challenges of overtourism. 

As Japan, a country celebrated for blending ancient traditions with modern advancements, grapples with the influx of millions of visitors annually, Kyoto is stepping up to the challenge. The city’s new strategy includes raising accommodation taxes for tourists in an effort to strike a balance between tourism growth and the well-being of the local community.

Japan has long been a magnet for travelers worldwide, offering a diverse range of experiences from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Nara. Tourists flock to Osaka for its vibrant street life and to Kyoto to enjoy its peaceful zen gardens and historic tea houses. However, this surge in popularity has led to overcrowding, placing strain on local resources and making daily life more challenging for residents.

In response, the Japanese government has taken proactive steps to manage the influx of visitors. One notable initiative is the introduction of a tax for those wishing to climb Mount Fuji, one of the country’s iconic natural landmarks. These measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure that tourism remains sustainable and beneficial for all.

In response to these challenges, Kyoto has developed a targeted strategy. Renowned for its breathtaking Buddhist temples and rich cultural heritage, the city attracts countless visitors eager to experience its unique atmosphere. To manage this influx more effectively, city officials have decided to increase the accommodation tax for tourists staying in local establishments.

According to Geo reports, the new tax will vary depending on the price of your room. If you’re staying in a room that costs between 20,000 and 50,000 yen per night (about 124 to 310 euros), expect your tax to double to 1,000 yen (around 6.20 euros) per person per night. For more expensive rooms, ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 yen per night (roughly 310 to 620 euros), the tax will rise sharply to 4,000 yen (24 euros). For rooms priced above 620 euros per night, the tax will increase tenfold, reaching 62 euros per person each night.

This revised tax policy is set to take effect by March 2026, giving both tourists and local businesses ample time to adjust. In addition to managing the number of visitors, the move also aims to address issues like disrespectful behavior toward Kyoto’s geishas, a concern that has escalated alongside the tourism boom.

Kyoto’s city officials have shared their rationale behind this decision, stating: “We aim to increase the accommodation tax to foster sustainable tourism that benefits citizens, tourists, and businesses alike.” Their goal is to preserve Kyoto’s cultural heritage while ensuring a harmonious coexistence between locals and visitors.

By gradually implementing these changes, rather than imposing them abruptly, Kyoto hopes to not only alleviate overcrowding but also create an environment where everyone can enjoy the city’s unique offerings without sacrificing the quality of experiences or the well-being of the community.

Other cities in Japan are closely monitoring how well these efforts succeed in a culturally significant place like Kyoto. If proven effective, they may consider adopting similar measures, guiding us toward more balanced and responsible approaches to managing global travel trends in the future.

By Naila Huseynova