Travelling to Japan in 2026 is set to become more expensive, with a series of new taxes and price hikes coming into effect across accommodation, transport, and departure fees.
The changes span multiple regions and sectors, increasing overall travel costs. While some charges apply to all visitors, others depend on where travellers stay and how they move within the country.
Accommodation taxes expandSeveral regions in Japan have introduced or increased lodging taxes. In Kyoto, a new system implemented from March 1 requires visitors in luxury hotels to pay JPY 10,000 or more per night, while mid-range stays attract charges between JPY 1,000 and JPY 4,000. Budget stays under JPY 6,000 are charged JPY 200.
Other prefectures, including Hokkaido, Hiroshima, Gifu, and Mie, have also introduced per-night accommodation taxes, with additional local levies in cities such as Sapporo.
Further taxes are expected in regions like Nagano, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki from June 2026, though final rates are yet to be announced.
Departure tax to triple
From July 2026, Japan will raise its international departure tax from JPY 1,000 to JPY 3,000 per person for travellers leaving the country by air or sea.
The government said the increase is aimed at bringing the fee closer to global benchmarks.
Rail travel costs riseTransport costs are also set to increase. From October 1, the price of the Japan Rail Pass will rise by JPY 3,000 to JPY 53,000 for a seven-day standard pass. Premium Green Car passes and longer-duration passes will also see price hikes.Visa fee hike under consideration
Japan is also reviewing visa charges, which currently stand at around JPY 3,000 for single-entry and JPY 6,000 for multiple-entry visas. Proposals suggest these could increase to JPY 15,000 and JPY 30,000 respectively, although no final decision has been announced, according to a report by Nikkei Asia.
AloJapan.com