Kyoto to introduce highest hotel tax for tourists from 2026

Dhaka: Overnight visitors to Kyoto will face significantly higher accommodation taxes starting March 1, 2026, following approval by the Kyoto City Council and confirmation by Japan’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications.

The revised tax structure will see some rates increase up to tenfold, based on nightly accommodation charges per person. 

The city aims to use the additional revenue to address over-tourism, upgrade infrastructure, and preserve its cultural heritage.

Kyoto, known for its temples, gardens, traditional architecture, and geisha districts, attracts millions of tourists annually but has struggled with congestion, infrastructure strain, and heritage preservation challenges.

City officials said the funds raised will support safer transportation, promotion of lesser-known neighborhoods, preservation of cultural assets, and initiatives to manage tourism-related issues like congestion and waste.

-B