Kyoto Announces Plan to Hike Hotel Lodging Taxes
Background
Japan has experienced a significant surge in foreign tourist numbers since the lifting of pandemic restrictions. In 2024, it is expected that over 35 million visitors will descend upon the country, with many flocking to the ancient city of Kyoto, famous for its kimono-clad geisha performers and Buddhist temples.
The Problem of Over-Tourism
While the influx of tourists has brought in revenue, it has also caused tension among locals, particularly in the Gion district, where geisha and their apprentices perform traditional dances and play instruments. Residents have complained of tourists harassing the geisha like paparazzi in their frenzy for photos to wow their Instagram followers.
The Solution: A Hike in Hotel Lodging Taxes
To address the issue of over-tourism, authorities in Kyoto have announced plans to hike hotel lodging taxes. The new rates will take effect next year, subject to approval from the city assembly.
For rooms in Kyoto priced at 20,000-50,000 yen ($127-317) per night, visitors will see their tax double to 1,000 yen ($6.35) per person per night. For accommodation over 100,000 yen per night, the tax will soar tenfold to 10,000 yen.
Other Measures to Control Tourism
The city is not stopping at just hiking hotel taxes. It has also implemented measures to control tourism, such as limiting entry to certain areas and introducing a daily cap on the number of hikers climbing the famous Mount Fuji.
Other Cities’ Approach to Tourism
Major metropolises in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, have already levied tourists a few hundred yen per night for accommodation. The new measures in Kyoto aim to create a more sustainable tourism industry, with a high level of satisfaction for citizens, tourists, and businesses.
Conclusion
The hike in hotel lodging taxes is just one of the measures being taken by the city of Kyoto to address the issue of over-tourism. As the city seeks to balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of its residents, it is clear that a more sustainable approach is needed to ensure that all parties benefit from the influx of visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How will the new hotel lodging tax rates affect tourists?
A: The new rates will be as follows: 1,000 yen ($6.35) per person per night for rooms in Kyoto priced at 20,000-50,000 yen ($127-317) per night, and 10,000 yen for accommodation over 100,000 yen per night.
Q: How does this compare to other cities in Japan?
A: Major metropolises in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, have already levied tourists a few hundred yen per night for accommodation.
Q: What other measures is Kyoto taking to control tourism?
A: The city is limiting entry to certain areas and introducing a daily cap on the number of hikers climbing the famous Mount Fuji.