TOKYO (FN) — Japan has announced new measures to manage overtourism in popular destinations such as Kyoto and Mount Fuji, introducing stricter rules, new fees, and physical restrictions as visitor numbers surge past pre-pandemic records.
Officials say the steps are aimed at protecting cultural heritage, easing pressure on local communities, and ensuring safety at sites that have struggled with overcrowding. Kyoto, known for its historic temples and geisha districts, will expand accommodation taxes and enforce time-slot systems at major attractions. Photography bans remain in place in parts of Gion, where residents have complained about tourists blocking narrow streets.
At Mount Fuji, authorities are introducing entry fees and mandatory reservations for climbing routes, along with barriers to control viewing spots in Fujikawaguchiko. The measures are designed to reduce environmental damage and improve safety as thousands of visitors flock to the mountain daily.
Japan welcomed more than 42 million international visitors last year, surpassing its previous record. Most tourists concentrated along the “Golden Route” of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Mount Fuji, creating what officials describe as unsustainable pressure on infrastructure and local life.
Reactions have been mixed. Local residents in Kyoto and Fujikawaguchiko have welcomed the restrictions, saying they restore balance to daily routines. Tourism operators worry that higher fees and stricter rules could discourage visitors, while international travel experts argue the measures are necessary to preserve Japan’s cultural heritage and ensure sustainable growth.
Globally, Japan’s approach is being closely watched as other destinations, including Venice and Barcelona, grapple with similar challenges. Analysts say Japan’s policies could serve as a model for balancing economic benefits with community well-being.
With tourism projected to reach 60 million annual visitors by 2030, Japan’s challenge will be to spread travelers more evenly across the country, encouraging visits to lesser-known regions while protecting iconic sites.
