Osaka Ramps Up Tourist Tax to Tackle Overtourism

OSAKA, Nov 06 (News On Japan) - Osaka Prefecture’s legislative assembly approved an amendment on Tuesday to raise the accommodation tax imposed on travelers as a measure against overtourism.

The approved amendment, which aims to tackle overtourism, will increase the accommodation tax Osaka Prefecture levies on hotel guests by up to 200 yen. Currently, the tax is applied to accommodation rates of 7,000 yen or more per person per night, but under the new rules, it will apply to rates of 5,000 yen or more. The tax itself will also increase, from the current range of 100 to 300 yen, to between 200 and 500 yen.

Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture remarked, "We want to use these funds to enhance the city’s cleanliness and further promote Osaka’s appeal as a tourist destination."

The revised accommodation tax will be implemented following national approval and a public awareness period. With this change, Osaka Prefecture’s tax revenue is expected to increase from the current 2.5 billion yen to around 8 billion yen.

Source: YOMIURI

Student's Homemade Bomb Sparks School Lockdown in Sapporo

A suspicious object feared to be explosive was discovered at a high school in Sapporo on the afternoon of November 22nd, causing temporary chaos. The object was found to have been brought to the school by one of its students.

China to resume visa-exemptions for short-term Japanese travelers

China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Nagoya's Highlights | Overnight Trip Itinerary

In this video, we'll head to Nagoya for an overnight trip, checking out some of the popular attractions the city has to offer. (japan-guide.com)

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

Tourists Taking Risks Chasing the Perfect Shot

Foreign tourists flocking to Tokyo’s Roppongi have been engaging in dangerous photography, turning the area’s popular photo spots into safety hazards.

Asakusa to Host 'Longest Shopping Street in Japan'

A new shopping street, set to be Japan's longest, will open in Tokyo's Asakusa area on November 20th. Spanning 3 kilometers, it aims to surpass Osaka's Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, which currently holds the title at 2 kilometers.

Mt. Ninouji Autumn Panorama

Located in the northern part of the Echigo Mountain Range, this iconic mountain in Shibata is among Japan's '200 Famous Mountains.' It has long been a site of religious significance, with the Ninouji Shrine—designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in March 2024—situated at the trailhead.