Japan has never been more popular — and with good reason. Incredible culture, jaw-dropping scenery, and some of the best food on the planet. But with popularity comes pressure.

In 2024, Japan welcomed 36.9 million tourists, breaking records and officially entering what experts are calling a post-pandemic tourism boom. But this surge in visitors has led to a new problem: overtourism.

What’s Actually Happening?

If you've been to Japan recently (or plan to go soon), you’ve probably noticed that some of the most iconic places — Kyoto, Mount Fuji, central Tokyo — are packed.

Think:
🚏 Long lines for buses in Kyoto
🗻 Crowds overwhelming photo spots at Mount Fuji
📸 Fines for photographing geisha without permission

In fact, some towns are now putting up physical barriers to block tourists from overpopulating popular locations.

So… What Is Japan Doing About It?

Japan isn’t banning tourists (thankfully!), but they are making changes — and if you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to know about them ahead of time:

💳 1. Higher Fees for International Tourists

From July 2025, some attractions will have dual pricing — charging international tourists more than locals.
For example:

• Niseko ski resorts will charge foreigners ¥6,500/day vs ¥5,000 for locals

• Major landmarks like Kiyomizu Temple and Himeji Castle are following suit

It’s not about punishment — it’s about preserving these iconic sites and supporting local infrastructure.

✋ 2. Caps on Crowds

• Mount Fuji will limit climbers to 4,000 per day

• A hiking fee will be introduced
  Expect some attractions to require pre-booking, especially during peak seasons.

✈️ 3. Tourist Tax May Rise

Currently, all departing international passengers pay a ¥1,000 tourist tax. That could rise to ¥3,000–¥5,000 soon.
This helps fund upgrades in transport, conservation, and crowd control efforts.

💱 4. Japan May Not Be as Cheap as You Remember

While Japan has been considered budget-friendly in recent years due to a weaker yen, the currency is now rebounding.
As a result:

• Hotel rates are higher

• Meals and transport are slightly more expensive
  So it's worth factoring in higher costs for 2025 travel.

🧭 5. Encouraging You to Explore Beyond the Hotspots

Japan is putting effort into promoting lesser-known towns and cities — and this is actually good news for travellers.

You can avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems with fewer lines, more space, and a more authentic feel.

Some of the 11 model regions being promoted include:

• Iya Valley (Tokushima)

• Noto Peninsula (Ishikawa)

• Oita (Kyushu)

Perfect for those wanting to see a different side of Japan — especially with kids in tow.

🚦 6. Tourist Behaviour is Under the Spotlight

Authorities are cracking down on disruptive behaviour (and rightly so).

• Fines for unauthorised photos of locals (especially geisha in Kyoto)

• Security staff deployed to popular photo spots

Japan is encouraging visitors to respect cultural norms and be aware of local etiquette. For families, this means helping your kids understand the dos and don’ts — which most parents want to do anyway.

But Don’t Stress — Tourists Are Still Welcome

Japan’s changes aren’t about turning people away — they’re about protecting the experience for everyone.

And the good news? A growing number of travellers support it.
In a recent survey, over 60% of foreign visitors said they’d be willing to pay a bit more to protect Japan’s natural and cultural treasures.

What This Means for You

If you're planning a trip to Japan in 2025 or beyond:

✔️ Book early for top attractions
✔️ Check fees in advance (especially for climbing or heritage sites)
✔️ Explore beyond the cities — you might fall in love with somewhere unexpected
✔️ Budget a little extra for pricing changes and currency shifts
✔️ Brush up on etiquette — a little respect goes a long way

Japan is doing what it can to keep its magic alive — and as travellers, we get to be part of that.

Being aware of these changes means your trip will run smoother, feel more immersive, and be more enjoyable — for you and the locals.

Note: This blog is based on updates available as of April 2025. Always check local and official sources closer to your travel date for the latest info.