Japan Departure Tax Set to Rise to 3,000 Yen From July 2026

Departure Tax Increase to 3,000 Yen in July 2026

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Aiming to ease worsening overtourism, the Japanese government has agreed on tax reform and will change the departure tax effective July 2026. Below are the main points.

1. Main points of the tax adjustment

1. Adjustment amount: From the current 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen (a threefold increase).
2. Who is charged: Applies regardless of nationality, covering both Japanese citizens and foreign visitors.
3. Collection method: A flat collection system will be used; the tax is the same regardless of cabin class (business or economy) and will be added directly to airline or ship ticket prices.

2. Why raise the fee?

This newly generated revenue will be earmarked for improving the travel environment and addressing overcrowding. Examples include improving infrastructure, such as adding trash bins at attractions, parking lots, and public restrooms.

Other measures include optimizing transport connections and introducing reservation systems for tourist facilities to disperse visitor flow.

Through both hardware and software upgrades, the aim is to reduce the burden on local residents and provide a more comfortable experience for travelers.

Compensation measures for Japanese citizens

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To prevent the tax increase from discouraging Japanese citizens from traveling abroad, the government is simultaneously considering lowering passport application fees.

The intention is to balance public sentiment domestically and minimize resistance to the policy's implementation.

This article is compiled and reprinted based on reports from Nikkei, Yomiuri Shimbun, and TBS NEWS DIG.