Osaka weighs fee for foreign tourists over overtourism concerns

Osaka Prefecture in Japan is considering implementing an “entry fee” for foreign tourists staying within the region, as disclosed by Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura during discussions with reporters on Wednesday. This proposal comes in light of concerns over ‘overtourism,’ particularly with the impending opening of MGM Osaka, a casino resort scheduled for 2030.

Governor Yoshimura mentioned that an expert panel would finalize the details of the proposed entry fee by April. The aim is to introduce this fee in time for the Osaka-Kansai Japan Expo starting in April 2025.

Currently, there are no taxation programs in Japan specifically targeting foreign nationals, and any such scheme would require approval from the relevant ministry, as per guidance from the Internal Affairs and Communication Ministry mentioned in the Japan Times report.

Osaka holds the distinction of being the sole Japanese community granted the right to host a casino resort, with the MGM Osaka project anticipated to commence operations in 2030 at an estimated cost of JPY1.27 trillion (US$8.58 billion).

Additionally, the Japan Times highlighted that Osaka currently imposes an accommodation tax ranging from JPY100 to JPY300 on both domestic and international guests staying in accommodations costing JPY7,000 or more per night.

Original Story by: GGRAsia