Japan is a famous destination known for its unique fusion of scenic landscapes, a distinct culinary scene, and ancient traditions. The country is expanding its efforts to manage overtourism and upgrade travel infrastructure by introducing new lodging and tourist taxes across multiple prefectures. Read on to know more about it.
Japan To Impose Tourist Tax
As per a report by Japan Today, at least 20 governments, including Hokkaido, have started collecting new taxes on overnight stays and accommodation. Unlike a nationwide levy, Japan’s lodging tax is locally administered, enabling cities to set their rates based on tourism pressure and policy priorities. According to NDTV, Hokkaido will be charging a lodging tax that ranges between ₹58 and ₹298 per night per person, depending on the cost of accommodation. The budget stays will have the lower rate, while higher-priced hotels will be taxed at the upper end of the slab.
Not only Hokkaido, but other regions are also adopting the same model for tier pricing, ensuring that luxury travellers contribute more than other tourists. These taxes will be levied only on overnight stays and not on day visits. Hiroshima has also implemented a lodging tax specifically designed to fund tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor facilities. According to the news portal, Hiroshima officials announced their plans to reinvest the tax revenue into the development and maintenance of tourist sites. As per Travel Weekly Asia, the expansion of lodging in Japan’s tourist taxes means travellers will observe additional charges at hotel check-outs, especially in popular destinations.
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What Is The New Lodging Tax Regime?
Kyoto had approved Japan’s highest lodging tax back in October 2025, targeting the city’s most luxurious and expensive hotels. As per the revised system, budget accommodation continues to attract lower levies; mid-range hotels observe higher nightly taxes, and luxury hotels are charged up to ₹5,500 per person per night.
Kyoto officials attributed the decision to severe overtourism, which impacted public transport, daily life in the neighbourhood, and waste management. The city also plans to use revenue to fund conservation projects and services for the residents.
With the extreme over-tourism in Japan, the tourist tax system signals a clear shift towards ensuring better tourism and attracting more visitors. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/ Evgeny Tchebotarev
FAQs
Why is Japan famous for?
Japan is known for its unique fusion of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation, high-tech infrastructure, distinct culinary scene, and pop culture.