Kyoto, Japan's Ancient Capital, to Introduce Sustainable Tourism Tax in 2026
Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital, is set to increase its accommodation tax starting from March 2026 to promote "sustainable tourism". According to multiple sources, this measure, which still needs to be approved by the municipal assembly, plans to introduce taxes that vary depending on the price of accommodations.
For rooms priced between 20,000 and 50,000 yen per night, the tax will be 1,000 yen. For more expensive rooms, between 50,000 and 100,000 yen, the tax will be 4,000 yen. Luxury rooms, exceeding 620 euros per night, will see the tax increase to 62 euros.
This decision was made in response to the significant influx of tourists in recent years. The number of foreign visitors to Japan has surged, reaching a record high of 35 million in 2024. This has caused infrastructure and behavioral problems. Kyoto residents are complaining about tourists entering private areas and disturbing geishas for photos, particularly in the Gion district.
The tax hike aims to reduce the impact of tourism on the city. It is part of a global movement to combat overtourism, as seen in Venice or Barcelona. Other locations in Japan, such as Mount Fuji, have also implemented restrictions to limit visitor numbers.
