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Tengrinews.kz - From 2026, visiting Kyoto, Japan, will become noticeably more expensive for travelers from Kazakhstan and other countries, following a significant hike in the city’s tourist accommodation tax.
According to The Independent, the new rates will affect stays in hotels, traditional ryokans, and hostels, with some charges rising to around 10,000 yen (approximately 35,200 tenge) per night. The move comes as Kyoto experiences a surge of visitors drawn to its historic temples, traditional architecture, meticulously maintained gardens, and geisha culture.
Kyoto Mayor Koji Matsui explained that the tax increase aims to “balance tourism with the everyday life of local residents”, citing complaints about overcrowded public transport and disturbances in traditional neighborhoods.
Under the new system, effective March 2026:
- Stays under 6,000 yen (~21,120 tenge) — 200 yen (~704 tenge) per night, unchanged.
- 6,000–20,000 yen (~21,120–70,400 tenge) — tax doubles to 400 yen (~1,408 tenge).
- 20,000–50,000 yen (~70,400–176,000 tenge) — 1,000 yen (~3,520 tenge), twice the current rate.
- 50,000–100,000 yen (~176,000–352,000 tenge) — 4,000 yen (~14,080 tenge), quadruple.
- Above 100,000 yen (~352,000 tenge) — 10,000 yen (~35,200 tenge), ten times higher.
Certain groups, including school trips and supervising adults for children’s activities, are exempt. The Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that the changes aim to strengthen Kyoto’s appeal as an international cultural tourism center and promote sustainable tourism.
City officials expect the tax to generate up to 12.6 billion yen annually (~44.4 billion tenge) and help manage the pressures of mass tourism. Despite rising costs, Japan continues to see record visitor numbers, with 36 million tourists in 2024, surpassing pre-COVID levels in 2019.
Experts note that while some travelers may adjust their hotel choices or shorten stays, the main goal is to preserve Kyoto’s cultural heritage while maintaining residents’ comfort and tourists’ experience.
