Aussie travellers heading to Japan to be hit with increased hotel tax in Kyoto

Australian travelers stopping off in Japan’s iconic Kyoto will soon face an increase in hotel tourism tax as city authorities grapple with rising tourist numbers.

Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications confirmed the new tax earlier this month, with increases starting in 2026.

Currently, the city levies a lodging tax limited to about $10 per night.

But now tourists staying in high-end hotels or those costing more than $1,000 per night will pay around $100.

There is a $40 tax per night for rooms between $500 and $1,000.

The $10 per night tax will remain the same for rooms priced between $200 and $500.

For rooms under $60, travelers will pay around $2.

Kyoto is one of Japan’s tourism jewels, famous for its beautiful temples and traditional architecture.

Major tourist attractions include Sento Palace, Nishiki Market, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kinkakuji Temple.

Japan is an increasingly popular destination for Australian travellers.

According to data from the Japan National Tourism Organization, Australian tourists made 920,196 visits to the country in 2024.

There were 50,200 visits from Australia to Japan in July this year.

Japan had 24,955,390 visits from all nationalities across the country from January to July this year.