For many years, Japan has been on the top of everyone’s bucket list when it comes to the list of countries they must visit at least once in their lifetime.
While it may seem like a good thing on paper, it seems that the influx of foreign visitors into the country is becoming a headache for the Japanese government, who are now looking to make it more expensive for tourists to address overtourism.
Tourism tax may increase from RM29 to RM148
According to a report by Asia News Network, the Japanese government is considering to raise its International Tourist Tax from 1,000 yen (about RM29) to 5,000 yen (around RM148).
Also known as “departure tax”, it was first implemented in 2019 and is applicable to all tourists, be it foreigners or Japanese citizens, whenever they depart the country via air or sea.
However, it’s automatically included into your airline ticket or cruise fare so that you don’t have to pay it on a separate occasion.
Saw an influx of visitors in 2024
According to data by the Japan Tourism Agency, a whopping 36.87 million foreign visitors visited Japan in 2024 alone, while only 13.01 million Japanese citizens travelled overseas.
As for Malaysians travelling to the Land of the Rising Sun, more than half a millions trips were made in 2024, which was a 21.9% increase from 2023.
With the new tourism tax figure, the Japanese government is hoping that it would help tackle these issues:
- Alleviate the impact of overtourism by discouraging unnecessary trips
- Improve public infrastructure such as airports and transportation systems
- Ensure tourist hotspots remain enjoyable for both visitors and locals
Aside from Japan, Thailand is also looking to charge RM39 tourism tax on those looking to pay a visit:
