Visiting Kyoto is about to get pricier. The city, famous for its temples, geisha districts, and centuries-old charm, has announced plans to introduce Japan’s highest-ever hotel tax, charging visitors up to 10,000 yen (around $65) per night starting in 2026.
According to the Kyoto city government, the new accommodation tax will help fund efforts to preserve cultural landmarks, improve infrastructure, and manage the growing strain of overtourism. Approved by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications earlier this month, the levy will apply to hotels, ryokans, and other lodging facilities across the city.
Officials note that students and chaperones on official school trips will be exempt, but for most travelers, the new rates could make a stay in Japan’s cultural capital notably more expensive.
What can you expect to pay?
How much you’ll owe depends on the nightly rate of your stay. Previously, travelers paid a small flat fee, between 200 and 1,000 yen, depending on room cost. Under the new system, Kyoto’s hotel tax will scale more dramatically with the price of accommodations, making it the highest lodging tax in Japan once it takes effect in 2026.
Here’s how the new rates break down:
- Rooms below 6,000 yen: taxed 200 yen per night
- Rooms between 6,000 and 19,999 yen: taxed 400 yen per night
- Rooms between 20,000 and 49,999 yen: taxed 1,000 yen per night
- Rooms between 50,000 and 99,999 yen: taxed 4,000 yen per night
- Rooms at or above 100,000 yen: taxed 10,000 yen per night (about $65)
