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Japan’s Internal Affairs and Communications Minister, Seiichiro Murakami, has approved the introduction of accommodation taxes in 11 additional local areas starting this fall. The new taxes come in response to the surge in tourism following the pandemic and will help address issues such as over-tourism and the sustainability of the tourism sector.
Where Will the Tax Apply?
The lodging tax will be implemented in Miyagi and Hiroshima prefectures, as well as in five cities in Hokkaido, two cities in Gifu, and one each in Miyagi and Shimane. This brings the total number of local governments with lodging tax approval to 24.
Tax Details
The tax amount will range between 100 yen ($0.70) and 500 yen per person per night, depending on the local government. Importantly, students on school trips will be exempt from paying this tax. The funds generated will support tourism industry initiatives and help mitigate the negative effects of tourism, such as overcrowding in popular destinations.
Previous and Upcoming Introductions
Japan has a long history of lodging taxes, with Tokyo being the first to introduce it in 2002. Other areas, such as Osaka and Kyoto, have followed suit, and Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture will begin collecting the tax in April 2025. Akaigawa village in Hokkaido will implement the tax in November. Additionally, Chiba and Okinawa prefectures are preparing to adopt the tax as well.
Kyoto, a city heavily impacted by over-tourism, plans to revise its current lodging tax system, raising the maximum rate from 1,000 yen to 10,000 yen per night.
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