Kyoto will impose Japan’s highest-ever hotel tax from March 2026, with charges reaching up to ¥10,000 (£49) per person per night at luxury hotels. The measure, approved by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, is aimed at curbing the impact of overtourism following record visitor numbers.

Japan welcomed 36.9 million international tourists in 2024, surpassing its pre-pandemic peak by more than 15%. Officials said the new tax will help ensure visitors contribute to maintaining the city’s infrastructure, cultural sites, and countermeasures against overcrowding.

The tiered system will replace the flat-rate levy introduced in 2018, which capped charges at ¥1,000 (£4.9). Under the new rules, guests at mid-range hotels will pay between ¥200 (£0.98) and ¥4,000 (£19.7) depending on room rates, while budget accommodations will see smaller increases.

Kyoto, known for landmarks such as Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkaku-ji and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, has been at the centre of Japan’s overtourism debate. Rising visitor numbers have also led to concerns over congestion at Mount Fuji, where new entry restrictions and fees were introduced earlier in 2025.

City officials said the hotel tax will provide a sustainable funding stream to manage tourism while preserving Kyoto’s historic character and quality of life for residents.