Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the growing discontent among local residents in Barcelona and other European tourist cities regarding the overwhelming influx of tourists, which they feel disrupts their daily lives and local culture [1][2][3]. Group 1: Impact of Tourism on Local Life - Barcelona is expected to welcome 100 million tourists this year, leading to overcrowding in popular areas like the Sagrada Familia and local beaches, causing frustration among residents [1][5]. - Local protests have emerged, with residents expressing their grievances through slogans like "Let tourists go home" and "Barcelona is not for sale," indicating a strong sentiment against mass tourism [2][6]. - The tourism sector significantly contributes to Barcelona's economy, accounting for 14% of the city's GDP, with projected direct tourist spending of €10.317 billion in 2024 [6][7]. Group 2: Economic Dependency and Challenges - The article highlights the economic dependency of cities like Barcelona on tourism, which can lead to vulnerabilities in the local economy due to over-reliance on a single industry [6][7]. - Similar challenges are faced by other Southern European cities, such as Lisbon and Venice, where tourism constitutes a significant portion of GDP (18.8% for Portugal and 10.8% for Italy) [7][8]. - The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has exacerbated housing shortages for locals, with over 18,000 listings in Barcelona, leading to increased rental prices [10][11]. Group 3: Social and Cultural Implications - The influx of tourists has led to a sense of alienation among locals, with many feeling that their cultural identity is being overshadowed by the demands of tourism [7][8]. - Residents report a decline in local businesses that cater to their needs, replaced by tourist-oriented establishments, further contributing to the loss of local culture [10][11]. - The article notes that the quality of tourists varies, with some causing disturbances and disrespecting local customs, which adds to the resentment felt by residents [10][11]. Group 4: Government Response and Future Outlook - In response to protests, the Barcelona government has pledged to remove approximately 10,000 tourist rental properties by 2028 and halt new short-term rental licenses to alleviate housing pressure on locals [18][19]. - The article suggests that effective management of tourism is crucial for balancing economic benefits with the quality of life for residents, emphasizing the need for public investment in local infrastructure [17][18]. - The ongoing protests reflect a broader trend in European cities where residents are increasingly vocal about the negative impacts of mass tourism on their daily lives and urban environments [17][19].

Group 1 - Spain is expected to welcome 100 million tourists this year, but many local residents are unhappy about the situation [1][6] - Barcelona's tourism industry significantly contributes to the local economy, accounting for 14% of the city's GDP, with direct tourist spending projected to reach €10.317 billion in 2024 [7][8] - The "Barcelona Anti-Tourism Expansion Neighborhood Alliance" organized protests against mass tourism, emphasizing the need for a diversified economy rather than reliance on tourism [6][8] Group 2 - Protests against overtourism are not limited to Barcelona; other European cities like Paris are also experiencing similar movements, highlighting issues such as staff shortages and deteriorating working conditions in the tourism sector [4][6] - The influx of tourists has led to increased housing prices and a shortage of rental properties for locals, with over 18,000 units listed on platforms like Airbnb in Barcelona [13][26] - The local government has committed to removing approximately 10,000 tourist rental units by 2028 to alleviate housing shortages for residents [26] Group 3 - The rise of short-term rental platforms has contributed to the overcrowding of local neighborhoods, with many residents feeling that their living spaces are being invaded by tourists [14][18] - The tourism sector's growth has resulted in a cultural shift, with local businesses being replaced by tourist-oriented establishments, leading to a loss of local identity [11][12] - The economic benefits of tourism are not evenly distributed, with many service workers experiencing increased workloads without corresponding pay increases during peak tourist seasons [19][28] Group 4 - The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily reduced tourism, allowing cities to regain some peace, but the rapid return of tourists has created a "second loss" experience for locals [24][25] - Experts suggest that tourism can be a key resource for economic development if managed properly, emphasizing the need for policies that benefit both the tourism industry and local residents [24][27] - Venice faces similar challenges as Barcelona, with a heavy reliance on tourism leading to social issues and a loss of local control over the city's future [9][10][27]

Core Viewpoint - Japan is considering increasing taxes on foreign tourists, including the potential elimination of tax-free shopping and an increase in departure taxes, to address issues of "over-tourism" and illegal resale practices while balancing government revenue needs [1][2][3] Group 1: Tax Policy Changes - The Japanese Ministry of Finance announced that the "International Tourist Tax" (departure tax) for the fiscal year 2024 has reached a record high of 48.1 billion yen, driven by an increase in foreign visitors [2] - A proposal from some ruling party members suggests the "principle abolition of the tax-free shopping system," citing concerns over illegal resale practices and the belief that the system has fulfilled its purpose [2][3] - The current tax-free shopping system allows foreign tourists to avoid consumption tax, which has led to exploitation by some individuals for profit [2][3] Group 2: Economic Implications - The estimated tax-free sales for fiscal year 2024 are approximately 2.4 trillion yen, with a corresponding consumption tax exemption of about 240 billion yen [4] - If the tax-free system is abolished and foreign tourists maintain their spending levels, it is projected to generate an additional 240 billion yen in tax revenue [4] - A proposal to increase the departure tax from 1,000 yen to 5,000 yen could raise tax revenue from 4.9 billion yen to approximately 25 billion yen [4] Group 3: Political Context - The ruling party and opposition parties are proposing various measures to alleviate household burdens ahead of the upcoming summer elections, with tax increases on foreign tourists seen as a less controversial option [3][5] - The push to abolish the tax-free system has garnered support across party lines, indicating a growing consensus on the need for reform [3][5] Group 4: Tourist Sentiment and Market Impact - Concerns have been raised that these tax changes may deter foreign tourists, with some indicating that tax-free shopping is a significant factor in their spending decisions [5][6] - Despite potential impacts, some tourists express that they would continue to visit Japan regardless of tax changes, although there are mixed feelings about increased departure taxes [6][7] - The Japanese government aims to balance the need for increased revenue with the potential risk of reducing tourist numbers, which are crucial for the tourism-dependent economy [7][8]

Core Viewpoint - The Louvre Museum in Paris experienced a four-hour shutdown due to a strike by employees protesting against over-tourism, staff shortages, and deteriorating working conditions [1][2]. Group 1: Strike and Its Impact - The strike involved guides, ticket sellers, and security personnel, leading to long queues for ticket holders, with some waiting for hours [1]. - The protest was described as a spontaneous action by staff who are dissatisfied with their working conditions [1][3]. - The museum reopened around 2:30 PM after the strike, although many employees planned to remain off duty for the day [1]. Group 2: Over-Tourism Issues - The Louvre has been facing significant challenges due to over-tourism, with 8.7 million visitors in 2023, far exceeding its infrastructure capacity [2]. - Despite a daily visitor cap of 30,000, staff reported that working conditions felt like an endurance test, exacerbated by limited rest areas and high temperatures [2]. - The crowding issue is particularly severe in the gallery housing the "Mona Lisa," where around 20,000 visitors daily create a chaotic environment [2]. Group 3: Government Response and Future Plans - French President Macron's promise of renovations, including a plan to relocate the "Mona Lisa" to a separate gallery, has not yet materialized, leaving staff under significant pressure [2][3]. - Employees criticized the government's investment of 700 to 800 million euros for renovations as a superficial solution to deeper issues, noting a more than 20% reduction in annual operational subsidies over the past decade [3].

Core Insights - Ibiza Island is implementing vehicle restrictions from June 1 to September 30 to combat "over-tourism" and ensure sustainable development [1] - The local government has set a daily vehicle limit of 20,168 for non-residents, with 16,000 allocated to rental cars and the remainder for private vehicles [1] - Spain is the second most popular tourist destination globally, with foreign tourist numbers expected to reach 94 million in 2024, a 13% increase year-on-year [1] Group 1: Tourism Management - Ibiza Island's vehicle restrictions aim to alleviate pressure on local infrastructure during peak tourist seasons [1] - The number of vehicles on Ibiza has increased from approximately 51,000 in 2002 to 207,000 in 2022, indicating significant growth in tourism-related traffic [1] - Other Balearic Islands, such as Formentera and Mallorca, have also implemented measures to limit vehicle access in response to over-tourism [2] Group 2: Economic Impact - The Balearic Islands attract around 19 million tourists annually, contributing significantly to Spain's tourism sector [2] - The measures taken by local governments reflect a broader trend in Spain to address the challenges posed by high tourist volumes [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the decline of local Japanese tourists in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, highlighting the increasing presence of foreign tourists, particularly from China, and the implications for local tourism dynamics [3][4][6]. Group 1: Decline of Local Tourists - Japanese media reports indicate a significant decrease in local tourists during the recent Golden Week, with popular destinations crowded by foreign visitors instead [6][7]. - In March 2024, Kyoto's hotel occupancy by Japanese tourists dropped by 16.1%, equating to approximately 300,000 nights [9]. - In Tokyo, over 50% of hotel guests were foreign tourists, indicating a shift in the demographic of visitors [11]. Group 2: Surge in Foreign Tourists - The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported a 73% increase in visas issued to foreigners in 2024, with Chinese tourists accounting for 5.24 million visas, representing 70% of the total [14]. - Data from travel platforms show that Japan is the top destination for Chinese outbound tourism during the Golden Week, with a 60% increase in chartered tours [15][18]. - The influx of Chinese tourists is evident in popular attractions, where they dominate the visitor demographic [21][22]. Group 3: Reasons for Local Tourists' Decline - The rising costs of travel within Japan are a significant deterrent for local tourists, with hotel prices in Tokyo averaging 29,600 yen (approximately 1,432 RMB), a 55% increase from pre-pandemic levels [25]. - Many Japanese business travelers are opting for capsule hotels due to high accommodation costs, leading to a reluctance to travel domestically [27][28]. - Overcrowding at tourist sites has made the experience less enjoyable for locals, with reports indicating a 19% decrease in Japanese visitors to Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji [32]. Group 4: Changing Perception of Japanese Cities - Major cities in Japan are increasingly perceived as tourist attractions rather than places for locals, leading to a sense of alienation among Japanese residents [34][38]. - The presence of foreign tourists has altered the cultural landscape, with local experiences being overshadowed by the influx of visitors [35][40]. - Complaints from locals about the negative impact of tourism on their quality of life have risen, with 60% of respondents in a recent survey feeling that tourism has degraded their living conditions [48]. Group 5: Government Response and Future Outlook - The Japanese government is implementing measures to manage tourist flow, such as visitor taxes and restrictions on access to certain sites [49]. - There is a push towards promoting lesser-known destinations to alleviate pressure on major tourist spots, aiming to create a more balanced tourism model [50][51]. - The future of tourism in Japan may see a shift towards deeper, more meaningful experiences, particularly for high-net-worth tourists, as the country adapts to changing dynamics [54][55].

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]