US Tourists Love to Visit This Nation, But Now Facing Over Tourism; Next Year Will Raise Tourist Tax

The surge in tourism follows eased travel restrictions and strategic promotional campaigns targeting international travelers. With the final figures for December yet to be tallied, 2023 is expected to surpass the pre-pandemic tourism high of 31.88 million visitors in 2019.

Local authorities are considering measures to alleviate overcrowding, including timed ticketing, expanded transportation options, and dispersing tourists to lesser-known attractions. Balancing growth with sustainability remains a key challenge for 2025 and beyond.

Regions such as Hokkaido, Okinawa, and the Japanese Alps are gaining popularity for their natural beauty and outdoor experiences. Efforts to promote eco-tourism and preserve the environment are being intensified to cater to the growing demand for sustainable travel options.

As visitor numbers rise, so do taxes aimed at maintaining infrastructure and preserving natural and cultural sites. The standard bathing tax, charged for hot spring experiences, is currently around $0.98 per day. However, in March 2024, the hot spring town of Higashi-Izu will increase this tax to approximately $2 per day, a move expected to generate additional revenue for local development.

Additionally, three municipalities in Hokkaido have introduced lodging taxes in addition to bathing taxes, with 16 other municipalities considering similar measures. These taxes are seen as a necessary step to fund the upkeep of tourist facilities and manage the growing influx of travelers.

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Key initiatives include:

The introduction of new EU-style green policies may also push tourists and businesses toward adopting eco-friendly travel habits.

As Japan prepares for another record-breaking year, the country must balance its booming tourism industry with sustainability and improved infrastructure. Travelers, policymakers, and local communities will all play a role in shaping the future of tourism in Japan.

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