Japan's Departure Tax Increases Drastically, Indonesian Travelers Must Prepare Extra Funds

Japan is entering a new phase in managing tourism flows. Over the past decade, the Land of the Cherry Blossoms enjoyed a massive surge in international visitors. Now Japan is facing the consequences of overtourism. 

One significant step in Japan's latest strategy is the plan to increase the departure tax for international travelers. Of course, this policy will directly impact tourists, especially foreign visitors.

As reported by Japan Today, policymakers are considering doubling the international tourist tax. So far, this tax hasn't been very noticeable to tourists because it's incorporated into the price of airline tickets. 

The old rate of 1,000 yen (around Rp110 thousand) will be raised to 3,000 yen (around Rp330 thousand). In fact, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Research Commission has proposed an even higher tax of 5,000 yen (Rp530 thousand) for users of business class seats or higher.

This policy has already been approved by the ruling party and is part of the national strategy to control tourism. 

With the parliamentary majority held by the LDP faction, the plan is predicted to face no major hurdles on its way to official enactment.

Why is Japan Raising the Tourist Tax?

Quoted from Travel and Tour World, the huge surge in foreign tourists is putting heavy pressure on popular destinations, from ancient temples in Kyoto to the hiking trails leading to Mount Fuji. 

Overtourism brings consequences, not only affecting the quality of life for local residents but also threatening environmental sustainability and cultural values.

Additional funds from the departure tax will be directed towards funding sustainable tourism initiatives, improving infrastructure in crowded tourist areas, creating additional parking in congested areas, reservation systems for popular tourist destinations, and public awareness campaigns regarding tourism ethics for foreign tourists.

Behind all this, the government wants to ensure that tourism growth does not come at the expense of cultural heritage and the comfort of local communities.

Pros and Cons in Japan

The departure tax must be paid by everyone leaving Japan, including its own citizens. This has sparked debate among Japanese citizens.

Is burdening local residents with a higher tax truly the solution to overtourism, which is largely caused by international visits?

Critics argue that the additional 4,000 yen charge for business class won't deter big-budget tourists. 

On the other hand, supporters see this policy as essential to protect Japan's culture and environment and to channel funds for the long-term management of destinations.

This policy aligns with a global trend. Many countries are starting to introduce or increase tourism taxes to balance visitor numbers with destination carrying capacity.

The proposed tax increase is planned to take effect from April 2026. Revisions to Japan's tax code could be made at the start of fiscal year 2026, right during spring. 

If it proceeds according to plan, tourists will experience the new rates while the cherry blossoms are still in bloom.