Japan's Overtourism Crisis: The Hidden Costs of Tourism Boom
James Saunders-Wyndham
Table of contents:
1. What is Overtourism?
Overtourism, or the negative impact of unsustainable tourism on the environment and local communities, has become a growing concern in popular tourist destinations worldwide. The excessive number of tourists has resulted in overcrowding not only in popular tourist spots but also in public areas and transportation systems, greatly compromising the quality of life for local residents.
2. 'Tourism Pollution' Means Overtourism in Japan
In Japan, instead 'over-tourism', the locals say 'kankō kōgai' (観光公害), which means 'tourism pollution'. It is used by locals to express how overtourism affects their daily lives. Many Japanese residents have come to be negatively impacted by overtourism and 'tourist pollution' describes their feelings perfectly.
3. Trip to Japan: The Rising Number of Tourists
Tourism in Japan since the late 2000s has surged. This is likely due to a combination of social media attention and comparatively low cost of living to other countries. In 2019, Japan saw a record 32.3 million visitors, contributing about $359 million to the GDP, making it the 11th most visited country. The tourism statistics below have been provided by JTB Tourism Research and Consulting.
| Months | 2023 Tourist Numbers | 2024 Tourist Numbers |
| January | 1,497,472 | 2,688,478 |
| February | 1,475,455 | 2,788,224 |
| March | 1,817,616 | 3,081,781 |
| April | 1,949,236 | 3,043,003 |
| May | 1,899,176 | 3,040,294 |
| June | 2,073,441 | 3,140,642 |
| July | 2,320,694 | 3,292,602 |
| August | 2,157,190 | 2,933,381 |
| September | 2,184,442 | 2,872,200 |
| October | 2,516,623 | 3,312,000 |
| November | 2,440,890 | |
| December | 2,734,115 |
Despite this, the large number of tourists has raised environmental concerns. In fact, 2024 has seen the highest number of tourists in Japan ever, with 35–39 million visitors being predicted, which would be a 10–30% increase from 2019.
4. Japan's Overtourism: A Growing Concern
In the middle of the 2010s, the term, overtourism, became a significant topic in Japan's tourism scene. Residents and authorities in popular Japan tourist areas started to voice concerns about tourist overcrowding.
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4.1. Japan Tourism Triggering Complaints
Complaints by Japanese locals have shed light on the numerous challenges linked to the rapid growth of Japan tourism, including the tourism impact on environment, noise pollution, and the handling of rubbish and waste, which is said to disrupt the local community. As a result, many are calling for Japan tourist restrictions.
5. The Impact of Overtourism in Kyoto
Japan's tourism overcrowding has started debates about balancing economic growth and preserving local culture.
As the heart of Japanese culture, Kyoto, with its historical temples and shrines, is one of Japan's prime tourist attractions and experiences the daily effects of how tourism impacts the environment.
- Some narrow Kyoto streets cannot handle the overcrowding of tourists;
- Pollution on Kyoto streets grow due to a lack of bins (Japanese people carry their personal trash);
- High tourist numbers are blocking entrance to old businesses around famous sites;
- Tourists with suitcases are overcrowding the local buses, impacting older residents.
5.1. How Overtourism in Kyoto Affects Geisha Culture
In the famed Kyoto area of Gion, Geisha have been harassed by visitors desperate for selfies. This resulted in a photography ban in the Gion. Tourists caught by police taking photos of Geisha or Maiko (trainee Geisha) in this area face a fine.
However, the local government felt that this was not stopping tourist from harassing Geisha. Therefore, from April 2024, all tourist were banned from entering Gion's backstreets. If you want to know more about this issue, please check out our article on the tourist ban in Gion.
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6. Overtourism News: Japan Tourism Issues
The cultural erosion caused by overtourism not only affects Kyoto but also extends to other destinations, such as Nara and cities in Hokkaido. Even the picturesque Nara, known for its famed deer park, encounters similar challenges stemming from tourism.
6.1. Tourist impact on local communities
- UNESCO World Heritage sites have been defaced with graffiti by tourist.
- Restaurant and tea house owners have expressed their frustration with tourists who disrupt their business.
- A Lawson convenience store with a view of Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture, was blocked by a black sheet due to overtourism in that spot.
- Construction of large hotels in the historic Gion district has raised concerns about the area's capacity to handle more tourists.
6.2. Overtourism in Nara
Tourists seeking selfies have harassed sacred deer in Nara and Miyajima, causing injuries and, in some tragic instances, death due to ingested plastic waste.
6.3. Overcrowded Mount Fuji
Over-tourism on Japan's signature site, Mount Fuji, has been grappling with rubbish issues due to a rise in visitor numbers. The increasing popularity of Mount Fuji tourism is highlighted by the significant number of visitors since the iconic Japanese site reopened for the 2023 season.
6.4. Tourist Restrictions on AirB'n'B
Japan's government has had to crack down on illegal Airbnb operations in response to an overwhelming number of complaints from locals disturbed by tourists in unregulated accommodations.
6.5. Social Media Influencers Causing Problems
In addition, foreign social media influencers have been in the news creating social disturbance by avoiding payment on trains and in local businesses for online views.
7. Book Tours That Support Sustainable Tourism
Overtourism can take a toll on Japan’s most beloved destinations. Choosing sustainable tours can reduce the impact while finding real travel experiences. By booking with operators that prioritize small-group experiences, support local communities, and minimize environmental impact, you can explore Japan while contributing to responsible tourism. These carefully selected affiliate links help support this site at no extra cost to you.
8. Where to Stay in Japan to Avoid the Crowds and Travel Sustainably
Your choice of accommodation can play a key role in avoiding the downsides of overtourism while making your trip more enjoyable. Staying in less crowded areas or booking eco-conscious hotels helps reduce the strain on over-visited destinations while supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability. These carefully selected affiliate links help support this site at no extra cost to you.
9. Strategies for Managing Overtourism in Japan
Recognizing the challenges posed by overtourism, the Japanese government has taken steps to address the issue. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced plans to draw up measures to combat overtourism as early as autumn 2023. Although the government does not seem to understand how to tackle this issue, it has announced the formation of a task force to take on issues caused by overcrowding.
9.1. Introducing New Policies to Deal with Overtourism
New measures to help Japan tourism include:
- Educating tourists to be socially responsible and to respect local customs;
- The promotion of lesser-known tourist spots;
- Introducing entry fees to popular tourist spots.
- Adding public buses that take tourists directly to famous sites.
9.2. Introducing Taxes to Tackle Japan Tourism
Several Japanese islands are introducing an "entrance tax" to manage overtourism and reduce pollution. Miyajima Island, a popular Hiroshima tourist attraction, is just one of many famous tourist sites in Japan that have started this trend.
10. Alternatives to Overcrowded Tourist Hot-Spots
One way the Japanese government wish to cut the negative impacts of tourism on popular destinations is to promote lesser-known Japan areas. Japan is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. There are some great alternative places to visit other than the big tourist spots. For example…
10.1. Avoiding Tourist Overcrowding
Shodenji - Kyoto
Kyoto's Shodenji Temple (正伝寺) is a great example of a lesser-known destination that has an amazing history and is free from overcrowding. If you are traveling to Kyoto, you should check it out!
Yanaka - Tokyo
Visitors to Tokyo who want to skip the crowds can explore the peaceful neighborhood of Yanaka (谷中). This Tokyo neighborhood has kept its rustic charm, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
11. Tips to Ease Overtourism
- Learn Japanese Customs: Familiarize yourself with Japanese etiquette and learn some basic Japanese phrases.
- Respect Cultural Sites: Show respect at sacred and significant sites.
- Support Local Economy: Eat at local restaurants and buy from local artisans.
- Prepare for Dining: Learn how to order food and pay at eateries.
- Use Public Transport: Understand the public transportation system.
- Avoid Overtourism: Explore less frequented destinations to prevent overcrowding.
If you would like to know more about how to ease the effects of overtourism, check out our article on the countermeasures to overtourism.
Also, if you would like to share your ideas or opinions about the topic related to this article, please be sure to leave a comment below, in the comment section.
FAQs
What is overtourism in Japan?
Overtourism in Japan happens when too many tourists visit popular places like Kyoto, Tokyo, or Osaka, causing overcrowding. This makes it hard for locals and travelers to enjoy the area. It can also harm the environment, cultural sites, and local traditions.
Is overtourism a problem in Japan?
Yes, overtourism in Japan has become a problem, especially in popular cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. Famous attractions like Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine and Osaka’s Dotonbori often face overcrowding, making it difficult for locals and tourists to enjoy these places. Overtourism also puts pressure on public transportation, local communities, and the preservation of cultural landmarks.
How does overtourism affect Kyoto's temples and streets?
Overtourism in Kyoto means famous temples like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Shrine get overcrowded, making it hard to enjoy their beauty. Narrow streets in areas like Gion also become packed, which disrupts daily life for locals and reduces the charm for visitors.
Why is tourism so high in Japan?
Tourism in Japan is high because people are drawn to historic sites like Kyoto’s temples, Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, and Japan’s seasonal highlights, such as cherry blossoms in spring. Events like the Olympics and the promotion of Japan as a safe and convenient destination have also boosted international visitors.
What are the problems caused by tourism in Japan?
The problems caused by tourism in Japan include overcrowding at famous attractions, increased waste and pollution, and disruption of local communities. In Kyoto, for example, residents face congestion on narrow streets, while in Nara, excessive feeding of the deer by tourists has led to health issues for the animals. These challenges highlight the need for better tourism management.
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James Saunders-Wyndham
I've been immersed in Japanese culture and daily life for over 30 years and am proud to call Japan my home. Originally from Australia, my journey has taken me from teaching at Japanese universities to traveling extensively across the country, uncovering its hidden gems. As a web developer, I built Romancing Japan from the ground up to share these experiences with you. Whether it's the charm of old Kyoto, the pulse of Tokyo, or the tranquility of the countryside, I love helping others discover the magic of Japan—one story at a time.
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