Airfare, food, transportation, and lodgings—traveling abroad is far from cheap. That’s why Japan’s accommodation tax can come as an unexpected extra cost for many travelers.
In this insight, I’ll explain how the accommodation tax in Japan works, how much you can expect to pay, and what changes may be coming in 2026 and beyond.
About the Accommodation Tax
The accommodation tax imposed in Japan is a local tax applied to guests staying at hotels, ryokan, and other lodging facilities in certain cities and regions.
The tax:
- Is charged per person, per night
- Is based solely on the room rate
- Varies depending on the city or municipality
Not all areas in Japan charge this tax, but major tourist destinations typically do apply the accommodation tax in Japan.
How Much Is the Accommodation Tax?
The amount varies by city and is based on the nightly room rate per person. Below are examples from major travel destinations in Japan.
Tokyo
| Amount (per night) | Accommodation Tax (per person) |
|---|---|
| ~ 10,000 JPY | No tax |
| 10,000 ~ 15,000 JPY | 100 JPY |
| 15,000 JPY ~ | 200 JPY |
Osaka
| Amount (per night) | Accommodation Tax (per person) |
|---|---|
| ~ 5,000 JPY | No tax |
| 5,000 ~ 15,000 JPY | 100 JPY |
| 15,000 ~ 20,000 JPY | 400 JPY |
| 20,000 JPY ~ | 500 JPY |
Kyoto (until March 2026)
| Amount (per night) | Accommodation Tax (per person) |
|---|---|
| ~ 20,000 JPY | 200 JPY |
| 20,000 ~ 50,000 JPY | 500 JPY |
| 50,000 JPY ~ | 1,000 JPY |
Accommodation Tax Changes in Japan (2026–2027)
Due to the surge in post-pandemic tourism and concerns about overtourism, several regions in Japan are reviewing or increasing accommodation taxes. For travelers, these changes to might impact their total trip costs.
Kyoto has officially announced changes starting in 2026. Other areas, including Tokyo and popular resort destinations, are currently discussing potential revisions.
Kyoto Tax Changes (March 1st, 2026)
Kyoto plans to significantly increase its accommodation tax, particularly for higher-end lodgings. If you are planning a trip, keep in mind the new accommodation tax rates in Kyoto.
| Amount (per night) | Accommodation Tax (per person) |
|---|---|
| ~ 6,000 JPY | 200 JPY |
| 6,000 ~ 20,000 JPY | 400 JPY |
| 20,000 ~ 50,000 JPY | 1,000 JPY |
| 50,000 ~ 100,000 JPY | 4,000 JPY |
| 100,000 JPY ~ | 10,000 JPY |
Tokyo Tax Changes (2027)
Tokyo is planning on changing the accommodation tax system entirely, from a fixed rate to being a percentage based one. Individuals staying in Tokyo will potentially need to pay a 3% accommodation tax based on their lodging fees. This tax could apply to stays of 13,000 JPY or more per night.
At the moment, this change is still under consideration. If approved, changes could be introduced in 2027, but no official timeline has been confirmed.
How to Reduce the Impact on Travel Costs
Since accommodation taxes are based on your nightly room rate, you can reduce the impact by traveling during off-peak seasons when demand is lower and rates cheaper. For those worried travel costs, consider booking hotels with lower nightly fees during less busy times of the year.
For more information, check out my insight on the cheapest time to book a hotel in Japan.
Have any questions or insight requests about hotels in Japan? Feel free to contact me below regarding any other travel advice.
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