Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward Bans Short-Term Rentals in Residential Areas Amid Tourist Complaints
Shinjuku ward in Tokyo, a popular tourist destination, is implementing a ban on short-term rental accommodations in residential areas and near schools and cultural sites. This measure, introduced via a local ordinance, comes in response to a surge in complaints from residents regarding tourist behavior. Officials reported over 1,300 complaints in the 12 months leading up to March, citing issues such as improper rubbish disposal, excessive noise, smoking in prohibited areas, and trespassing. The ban is expected to affect approximately 2,000 lodgings, nearly half of the 3,775 private lodgings, or 'minpaku,' in Shinjuku, a number that has almost tripled since 2022. The ward will seek public feedback next month before submitting revisions to the ordinance in February. Additionally, Shinjuku plans to reduce the number of days per year that minpaku in residential areas can be rented out from 180 to 120. 
