Core Viewpoint - The Japanese government plans to increase the "International Tourism Tax" from 1,000 yen (approximately 50 yuan) to 5,000 yen (approximately 250 yuan) for foreign tourists, aiming to boost tax revenue and address issues related to over-tourism and fiscal challenges [1][3][10]. Tax Overview - The "International Tourism Tax" was introduced on January 7, 2019, requiring all travelers leaving Japan to pay 1,000 yen, which is often included in ticket prices [3]. - The proposal to raise the tax was made by Senator Yoshikawa, who highlighted that Japan's current tax is significantly lower than those in countries like Australia (7,000 yen) and the USA (3,500 yen) [3]. - If the tax is raised to 5,000 yen, projected revenue from foreign tourists could increase from 49 billion yen (approximately 2.45 billion yuan) to 245 billion yen (approximately 12.25 billion yuan) based on the expected 36.87 million foreign tourists in 2024 [3]. Additional Taxes for Tourists - Foreign tourists in Japan also pay a consumption tax of 10% (8% for food), with a tax exemption available for purchases over 5,000 yen at duty-free shops [4]. - Accommodation tax varies by region, with Tokyo charging 100 yen (approximately 5 yuan) for hotels over 10,000 yen per night and 200 yen (approximately 10 yuan) for those over 15,000 yen [7]. Tourism Growth and Challenges - Japan is expected to welcome a record 36.87 million foreign tourists in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, with foreign tourist spending reaching 5.3 trillion yen (approximately 265 billion yuan) in 2023 [8]. - The surge in tourism has led to "over-tourism" issues, particularly in popular areas like Kyoto and Tokyo, causing local residents to express concerns about noise and litter [8][10]. Government Financial Concerns - The government is facing a projected national burden rate of 46.2% in 2025, with a tax burden rate of 28.2% and a social security burden rate of 18% [10][11]. - The potential revenue from the increased tourism tax is seen as a crucial source of funding to address fiscal deficits and support social programs [12]. Public Sentiment and Future Considerations - There are mixed opinions among Japanese citizens regarding the tax increase, with some supporting it as a fair contribution from tourists benefiting from public infrastructure [10][14]. - The government must balance the need for increased revenue with the risk of deterring tourists, especially as it aims to attract 60 million foreign visitors by 2030 [14][19].

Core Insights - The article discusses the significant decline of local Japanese tourists in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, while foreign tourist numbers, particularly from China, have surged dramatically [2][6][20] - The shift in tourism dynamics has led to local dissatisfaction, with many Japanese feeling that their cities have become overcrowded and less enjoyable due to the influx of foreign visitors [20][22] Group 1: Decline of Local Tourists - Local Japanese tourists have become increasingly rare in popular destinations, with a reported 16.1% decrease in hotel stays by Japanese visitors in Kyoto in March 2024 [2][14] - In Tokyo, over 50% of hotel guests are now foreign tourists, highlighting a significant demographic shift in the tourism landscape [2][4] - The rising costs of accommodation, with average hotel prices in Tokyo reaching 29,600 yen (approximately 1,432 RMB), have deterred local travelers [11][14] Group 2: Surge of Foreign Tourists - The number of visas issued to foreign tourists by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs increased by 73% in 2024, with Chinese tourists accounting for 5.24 million visas, representing 70% of the total [4][5] - Chinese tourists have become the largest group of foreign visitors, with a nearly 80% increase in arrivals, significantly impacting the tourism experience in Japan [6][20] - Popular tourist spots are now dominated by foreign visitors, leading to a change in the atmosphere and experience for local residents [9][14] Group 3: Local Dissatisfaction and Government Response - Many Japanese citizens express frustration over the overcrowding and commercialization of their cities, with 60% believing that tourism has negatively impacted their quality of life [22][23] - In response to the challenges posed by overtourism, local governments are implementing measures such as visitor caps and increased fees to manage tourist flow [19][23] - The trend indicates a potential shift towards promoting lesser-known destinations and deeper travel experiences, aiming to balance the needs of both tourists and local residents [24][26]