economy
'Fine for others to pay more': can Japan attract more overseas tourists while charging them extra?
Japan has ambitious targets to increase overseas visitor numbers, but there are growing concerns about overtourism. One possible answer is two-tier pricing
TL;DR
- Japan is experiencing overtourism despite ambitious targets to increase overseas visitor numbers.
- Himeji Castle has implemented two-tier pricing, charging non-residents 2,500 yen and local residents 1,000 yen.
- This pricing strategy aims to manage increased wear and tear costs and potentially deter some visitors.
- Concerns about overtourism include congestion, littering, and anti-social behavior.
- Other sites and Japan as a whole are also increasing taxes and visa fees for travelers.
- Two-tier pricing is already common in other Asian countries and is a growing trend in Europe.
- The Japan Tourism Agency is increasing its budget for initiatives to manage crowds and promote less-visited areas.