Japan's New Tourism Tax Can Cost Travelers Up to $65 a Night-What to Know

"The new updates are set to take effect in March 2026 and some travelers may see an increase of as much as ¥10,000 ($65.33) per night. The fee will scale in proportion to the room rate. Rooms costing under ¥19,999 ($130.66) will be required to pay a ¥400 ($2.61) fee,EuroNews reported. For more expensive and luxury stays above ¥100,000 ($653.32), a maximum tax of ¥10,000 ($65.33) will be charged, according to The Asahi Shimbun, a Japanese newspaper."

""The Accommodation Tax is used to cover costs involved in enhancing the attractions of Kyoto as an International Culture and Tourism City, and in promoting tourism," Kyoto's government wrote on its official website, which lists the old accommodation tax fees. The government said the tax helps preserve Kyoto's history and eases "congestion on roads and walkways." For years, travelers have complained of crowding in the renowned tourist city."

Kyoto will increase its hotel accommodation tax for overnight visitors starting March 2026, with fees scaled by room price and a maximum charge of ¥10,000 for rooms over ¥100,000. Rooms below ¥6,000 will pay ¥200; rooms under ¥19,999 will pay ¥400. The government states the tax will fund enhancement of attractions, tourism promotion, preservation of Kyoto's history, and measures to ease congestion on roads and walkways. Previous tax versions included waivers for natural disasters, and school groups are exempt. Travelers report overcrowding despite the city's cultural and seasonal appeal.

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