Japan Plans to Implement Two-Tiered Pricing at Tourist Sites to Combat Overtourism
Japan is set to introduce a two-tiered pricing system at various tourist sites, charging non-residents higher fees than locals. This initiative, announced by the Tourism Agency, aims to address the challenges of overtourism and generate revenue for the maintenance of aging historical sites. The plan is to formalize guidelines by March 2027, following successful trials at locations like Himeji Castle, where differential pricing led to a decrease in visitor numbers but nearly doubled ticket revenue. The move comes as Japan experiences a surge in tourism, with over 10.6 million tourists visiting in the first quarter of 2026, despite a significant drop in Chinese arrivals. The strategy is part of a broader effort to manage the impact of a weak yen, which has made Japan an attractive destination for international tourists. 
