The transition from cherry blossoms to autumn hues, alongside Tokyo’s magnetic allure, finds Japan facing a delicate balance: preserving its charm amidst global popularity. A key strategy in combating “overtourism” emerges: a proposed increase to the departure tax, potentially tripling the current ¥1,000 (roughly €6) to ¥3,000 (over €15) by 2026. This initiative, discussed by figures within the Liberal Democratic Party and government, reflects the challenges accompanying success.
Since its introduction in 2019, the “international tourist tax” has been added to airline and cruise tickets for departing travelers, including those with layovers exceeding 24 hours. It’s a discreet way to fund Japan’s appealing infrastructure, from bullet trains to serene gardens. However, given the significant post-pandemic rise in visitors, authorities believe it’s time for a revision.
A Surge That’s Straining the Seams
Japan’s tourism resurgence is undeniable. After the global health crisis disrupted travel, the nation witnessed an impressive comeback: approximately 36.9 million international visits in 2024, surpassing pre-COVID figures. Moving into 2025, the momentum continues, with about 21.5 million foreign arrivals in the first half of the year alone, suggesting a potential surpassing of last year’s total. Notably, September saw over 3.26 million visitors, marking an increase of about 13.7% from 2024, driven by a weaker yen, popular social media content, and the desire for authentic, uncrowded experiences.
This influx presents challenges. Iconic destinations, such as Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing, face daily crowds, while locations in Hokkaido and Okinawa experience environmental pressure. Transportation systems are strained, cultural heritage faces increased wear, and locals express concerns about “tourist fatigue,” especially in areas like Osaka. The government’s strategy? Utilizing financial measures. As stated by a Liberal Democratic Party representative to NHK, a tripled departure tax of ¥3,000 per person would generate critical funds for sustainable management, supporting areas from crowd-control technology to heritage preservation.
Kyoto’s Sticker Shock: A Harbinger of Things to Come
Japan’s focus on fees isn’t confined to airport departures. Kyoto, a cultural center known for its geisha districts and bamboo forests, will implement a revised accommodation tax starting March 2026. The tax is projected to reach ¥10,000 (about €56 or $65) nightly for high-end stays exceeding ¥20,000. While budget travelers might face a lower rate of ¥300-¥1,000, those enjoying upscale accommodations might experience a substantial increase. According to Kyoto city official Hiroshi Tanaka, this is to aid the protection of UNESCO heritage sites from the impact of tourism.
These increases are related to other adjustments: Visa fees for international visitors might also be adjusted in fiscal 2026, aligning Japan with global practices regarding entry fees. The key message is: visit and enjoy what we have to offer, but assist in supporting its future.
The Revenue Balance Rationale
Advocates emphasize the potential revenue. The departure tax generated ¥52.4 billion (approximately €300 million) in 2024, which went to eco-friendly transportation, digital temple reservation systems, and erosion control at Mount Fuji. Tripling the tax could yield over ¥150 billion annually, if visitor numbers remain, to support “overtourism countermeasures,” like additional shuttle services in Hakone and multilingual signs in Nara.
However, critics raise concerns. Tourism-related businesses, from restaurants to lodging providers, worry that higher costs will discourage travelers, especially with inflation affecting spending habits. Some argue that Japan’s appeal stems from its accessibility, and that these fees could transform it into an exclusive destination. According to Mia Chen, a travel analyst at the Japan Tourism Agency, preliminary surveys indicate a limited deterrent effect. Only about 12% of European respondents suggested they might reconsider their travel plans. However, one can discern the murmurings of “yen fatigue” appearing on various online platforms such as Reddit.
Will Travelers Book Anyway Despite the Changes?
For many international travelers, the impact appears manageable: an additional €9 on a ¥200,000 round-trip ticket is often seen as negligible, particularly when compared to other expenditures during peak season. Nevertheless, when combined with daily expenses in destinations such as Kyoto, the cumulative cost could potentially add €100+ to a week-long journey. Transit passengers, especially those on routes involving layovers, such as flights from Seoul to Sydney, may express greater dissatisfaction, given that the tax applies even if they don’t leave the airport.
As the year 2026 approaches, Japan is observing the situation carefully. The 2025 World Expo in Osaka, with an anticipated attendance of 28 million, including 10% from abroad, will likely serve as a testing ground for these new policies. Should the influx of visitors result in positive experiences rather than negative reactions, these tax increases might be deemed responsible fiscal management. Conversely, the outcome might underscore the critical need for careful calibration, even in Japan.
Currently, booking a flight for hanami season is advisable. Even as entry requirements evolve, the experience itself remains exceptionally compelling.
AloJapan.com