Shinjuku is one of the most famous tourist hotspots in Tokyo, Japan. The place shows the modern side of Japan with bright neon lights, skyscrapers, nightlife and holiday rentals. But now, the place has decided to ban more than half of its holiday rentals, including homes on Airbnb, after a rise in tourist complaints.
Tokyo’s Shinjuku To Ban Private Lodgings For Tourists
Tourists in Japan absolutely love the Shinjuku area in Tokyo. The place looks exactly like the Japan you see in movies, which is why many visitors often stay in holiday rentals in this area. But this might soon change. According to The Japan Times, the Shinjuku Ward is planning to ban ‘Minpaku’ (private lodging) in residential areas and near schools. The area hosts Japan’s largest number of Minpaku, which could affect about half of nearly 4,000 lodgings in the ward.
The authorities are taking this decision amid a rising number of complaints from local residents. Reportedly, many tourists at these private lodgings fail to follow trash disposal rules, make a lot of noise and smoke near their homes. This has disrupted their daily lives. These facilities will have a grace period during which they can wind up their operations once the ban is announced.
Also Read: Sushi While Sightseeing? Tokyo’s New Double-Decker Bus Makes It Possible
Shinjuku Received Over 1,300 Complaints In 2025
According to The Japan Times, in 2025, through March, Shinjuku Ward in Tokyo received 1,334 complaints regarding issues like trash, loud noise, and the absence of smoking or non-smoking areas. The ward has revoked licences for five operations and 15 of their facilities since December 2025. This has prevented them from doing business for the next three years.
This Minpaku system began in Japan in June 2018 to accommodate the rising number of tourists ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. These facilities helped boost the economy by utilising vacant houses due to the shrinking population in Japan.
Japan is currently facing overtourism, and this decision may affect many tourists. On the other hand, Shinjuku continues to attract many tourists who come to see the world’s busiest train station, look at the giant Godzilla head, explore beautiful parks, and walk through tiny alleyways packed with tiny bars and food stalls.
Also Read: Your Drawings Come Alive At This Tokyo Museum & It Feels Straight Out Of A Dream
What are your thoughts on this? Do share them with us in the comments section below.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Starcevic
FAQs
Why is Shinjuku in Tokyo famous?
Shinjuku is famous for its bright neon lights, skyscrapers, the world’s busiest train station, and nightlife.
Why is Japan banning private lodgings for tourists in Shinjuku?
Japan is planning the ban after local residents raised tourist complaints about noise, trash disposal and smoking.
What to do in Japan?
You can explore Tokyo and Kyoto, visit temples, try local food, and explore Japan’s beautiful cities and tourist hotspots.
