Okinawa Prefecture plans to collect accommodation tax from tourists as early as next year, and Mount Fuji prepares to build a fence to prevent tourists from nuisance | Wireless News TVB News
Okinawa Prefecture in Japan will introduce an accommodation tax for tourists next year. The tax will charge 2% of the accommodation fee, with a maximum of 2,000 yen per person per night, roughly 100 Hong Kong dollars. This tax will not apply to students and team leaders who accompany them. The government plans to submit a draft proposal in February and aims to implement the tax by 2026. It is projected to generate about 7.8 billion yen annually for the prefecture.
In Yamanashi Prefecture, authorities are taking steps to address tourist-related issues at Mount Fuji. The area has experienced problems such as jaywalking, littering, and illegal parking caused by tourists trying to enjoy the view. To improve safety, the local government previously set up a temporary barrier that blocked the view of Mount Fuji; however, it was removed due to typhoon concerns. Now, officials have decided to build a more stable fence, about 6 meters long, in front of a convenience store to manage foot traffic. Construction will start once the fence design is approved.
What are the expected benefits of the new accommodation tax in Okinawa for local tourism?
Interview with Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, Tourism Policy Specialist
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Dr.Tanaka. Let’s start with the new accommodation tax being introduced in Okinawa Prefecture. What are the main objectives behind this tax?
Dr. Tanaka: Thank you for having me. The primary objective of the accommodation tax is to create a sustainable funding source for tourism infrastructure and services in Okinawa. As tourism continues to grow,it puts pressure on local resources,and this tax will help the government manage those challenges. The anticipated 7.8 billion yen generated annually will be directed towards improving facilities and enhancing the overall tourist experience.
News Directory 3: It seems that the tax applies to all tourists except for students and their team leaders. What was the reasoning behind this decision?
dr. Tanaka: This exemption is designed to encourage educational tourism. By not burdening students, who often travel on limited budgets, the government hopes to promote school trips that can enhance cultural exchange and education. It also ensures that group activities, which can be beneficial for local economies, are not discouraged.
News Directory 3: Now shifting to Yamanashi Prefecture, can you provide some insight into the measures being taken to address tourist-related issues at Mount Fuji?
Dr. Tanaka: Certainly. The challenges at Mount Fuji, such as jaywalking, littering, and illegal parking, highlight the growing need for effective management of tourist behavior. A stable fence is a crucial step towards managing foot traffic and ensuring the safety of both tourists and local residents. This construction reflects a proactive approach to balancing the enjoyment of natural beauty with public safety and environmental preservation.
News Directory 3: What do you think the impact of this new fence will be?
Dr. Tanaka: The fence, although it may seem restrictive initially, is intended to channel tourists safely while protecting the scenic view. It will help direct foot traffic to designated areas, reducing incidents of littering and jaywalking. Long term, it can contribute to a more organized tourism experience, which is vital for maintaining the appeal of Mount Fuji.
News directory 3: what trends do you foresee in tourism management across Japan consequently of these new policies?
Dr. Tanaka: We are likely to see a gradual shift towards more sustainable tourism practices across Japan. policies like the accommodation tax in Okinawa and the strategic management approaches at Mount Fuji demonstrate a growing recognition of the importance of preserving both local environments and the quality of tourist experiences. As tourism continues to evolve, similar initiatives can help ensure that destinations remain vibrant and sustainable for both visitors and residents alike.