With its storied history and lovely landscapes, no one has to wonder why everyone wants to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. From old castles to fiery nightlife, Japan is among the world’s top tourist destinations for a reason. However, if you plan to visit Japan this year, be prepared to fork out more than expected, thanks to the possible tourist tax increase.
From RM30 to RM148
The Japanese government is considering increasing the country’s International Tourist tax, from its current ¥1,000 (RM30) to ¥5,000 (RM148). The move is meant to curb over-tourism, a growing problem in Japan as foreign tourists arrive in unprecedented numbers. This tourist tax is not unprecedented, with Egypt charging RM111 and Australia RM208.
What’s the tourist tax?
Japan’s tourist tax revenue is currently being used to promote international tourism by developing resorts and marketing to foreign visitors. If this tax increase is implemented, the revenue will also be used to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure and airports. The tax was first introduced in 2019, being added to ticket fees for any transport leaving Japan and applied to both foreign visitors and Japanese leaving the country.
Too many tourists?
Image Credit: Canva
Do you think the over-tourism issue is overblown? Think again. The Japan Tourism Agency said that last year, nearly 37 million people visited Japan and the numbers are expected to increase this year. That number includes about 506,800 Malaysians. The Japanese government aims to draw 60 million visitors in 2030. While tourism is good for the economy, airports and tourist attractions in the country are struggling to handle the masses. The tax is thus meant to ensure these places are properly equipped to handle more visitors in the future.
What do we think?
While this rise in tourist tax may cost Malaysians a little more, a visit to Japan is often worth the price. The reasons the Japanese government is considering this measure are rather justifiable, so it’s only fair to open our wallets a little wider the next time we fly off to Japan.
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Feature Image Credit: Canva
