Japan Triples Departure Tax from 2026: Travel Costs Soar Amid Overtourism Fight

• Japan will triple its International Tourist Tax (departure tax) from JPY 1,000 to JPY 3,000 starting July 2026, the first increase since 2019.
• The hike applies to all travelers aged two and above, regardless of nationality, flying or sailing out of Japan, impacting overall trip costs.
• The move aims to combat overtourism in popular areas like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and fund infrastructure upgrades and cultural preservation.
• Additional charges are expected with the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA) by 2028, adding JPY 2,000-3,000 per person.
• Travellers should budget for higher costs, as Japan shifts towards a "pay-as-you-travel" model to manage mass tourism and fiscal needs.

Why It Matters: Japan's departure tax triples from July 2026, increasing travel costs to manage overtourism and fund infrastructure.