OSAKA - Osaka City decided on September 30th to suspend new applications for so-called special zone minpaku, a category of private lodging that has seen a sharp rise in disputes with local residents.
Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama announced the decision, saying the city would put new registrations on hold for the time being, reflecting growing concern over noise, garbage, and other nuisances caused by guests. More than 90 percent of special zone minpaku in Japan are concentrated in Osaka, which introduced the system nine years ago to accommodate a surge in foreign visitors.
Complaints from neighbors have climbed rapidly, reaching 399 cases last fiscal year—more than double the previous year—with issues ranging from late-night drinking in front of houses to overflowing garbage and fire safety concerns. "It’s noisy when two or three people gather outside drinking," one resident said. Another recalled trash bins so full that garbage was scattered around, while others voiced fear of fire hazards.
The discontent has spread beyond Osaka City. In August, Neyagawa declared it would withdraw from the system, followed by seven other municipalities, including Izumiotsu, expressing similar intentions.
In response, Osaka set up a task force in July to study countermeasures. At a meeting on September 30th, the city confirmed it would halt new registrations while ensuring sufficient notice for operators. The city also plans to strengthen monitoring and guidance of operators, establish a dedicated enforcement team, investigate all minpaku within city limits, and prepare manuals for penalizing violations.
"Recognizing minpaku as a system has brought many visitors to Osaka, generating tax revenue and economic benefits," Yokoyama said. "But the anxiety and concerns of residents are significant. If things continue as they are, there is a risk the system itself may not survive. We need to pause, build a stronger framework, and set healthy standards."
The city also intends to consult with the central government about revising the system so local authorities can impose their own stricter regulations.
Source: YOMIURI
