The picturesque Ginzan Onsen, whose name translates to ‘silver mountain hot spring’, is implementing strict visitor controls to combat overtourism. The town is more than 300 years old as of now. Famous for its resemblance to the inn in the Studio Ghibli movie Spirited Away, the town has traditional inns and Edo-period wooden ryokan shopfronts. This hot spring town in Japan’s Yamagata region has become overwhelmed by its annual influx of 330,000 visitors.
Japan’s Famous Spirited Away Town Dispirited From Overtourism
The town is enhanced by warm street lamps illuminating its historic architecture. The town’s enchanting atmosphere is widely believed to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning animation Spirited Away. Its natural geothermal springs, rich in minerals, have long been valued for their therapeutic properties.
However, the charm that draws visitors has led to significant challenges. Local authorities have reported verbal abuse towards residents and disputes at popular photography spots. Severe congestion has also been reported.
So much so, that emergency services have been forced to abandon vehicles and respond to incidents on foot. In response, from January 7 until the end of March, the Ginzan Onsen Association is introducing new regulations.
Daily Cap Set On Tourist Number In The Japanese Town
While daytime access remains unrestricted between 9 AM and 4 PM, visitors without accommodation bookings must leave by 5 PM. The evening access, which is from 5 PM to 8 PM, will be limited to 100 pre-booked visitors.
From February, day visitors must park 2 km away and use a shuttle bus service costing ¥1,150 (₹624). These measures follow Japan’s broader struggle with tourism management. The country witnessed record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024.
It witnessed 33.38 million tourists between January and November, surpassing the previous record of 31.88 million set in 2019. Other Japanese destinations have already implemented similar restrictions. Kyoto banned tourists from its Geisha district in March.
Mount Fuji introduced mandatory climbing fees in July. In a notable move, the town of Fujikawaguchiko erected a view-blocking wall to discourage visitors.
Have you ever been to this town? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: Canva Pro Images
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First Published: January 08, 2025 11:48 AM