Japan Triples Departure Tax as Overtourism Grows

Travelling to Japan just became a little more expensive.

As of 1 July 2026, Japan has increased its International Tourist Tax, commonly known as the departure tax, from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 per traveller. The fee applies to everyone leaving Japan, including foreign visitors and Japanese citizens, and is typically included in the price of airline or ferry tickets.

Why Has Japan Increased the Tax?

Japan welcomed record numbers of international visitors in recent years, bringing significant economic benefits but also creating challenges in popular destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji. Crowded streets, pressure on public transport, and increased maintenance costs have prompted the government to look for new ways to manage tourism.

Revenue from the higher departure tax will help fund:

• Better tourism infrastructure
• Heritage and cultural site preservation
• Crowd management technology
• Improved visitor services
• Initiatives encouraging travellers to explore lesser-known regions instead of only the busiest destinations

Will This Affect Your Trip?

For most travellers, the increase is relatively small. The new fee of ¥3,000 (around €18) is still modest compared with the total cost of an international trip to Japan. Because the tax is included in most airline tickets, many visitors may not even notice it separately.

Japan remains one of the world’s most rewarding destinations, offering everything from vibrant cities and ancient temples to spectacular mountains, traditional villages, and exceptional cuisine.

A Growing Global Trend

Japan is not alone. Many countries have introduced or increased tourism-related taxes to balance visitor growth with sustainable tourism. These charges are increasingly being used to protect cultural landmarks, improve infrastructure, and ensure that tourism benefits both visitors and local communities.

For travellers, the additional cost is unlikely to change Japan’s appeal. Instead, it reflects the country’s efforts to preserve the very attractions that make it one of the world’s most popular destinations.