Tourist Tax, Departure Tax: What You Have to Pay in Japan

Tourist tax (宿泊税, Shukuhaku-zei)

On arrival, some hotels will ask you to pay the applicable tourist tax (if not already paid on your tour if traveling with Japan Experience). This must be paid at the hotel reception desk at check-out, in cash or by credit card.

The amount of the tourist tax varies according to the city and the price of the room.

In most Japanese cities, it does not exceed €2.50 (500 yen) per person per night. In Kyoto, where it's highest, it can vary from €1 (200 yen) to almost €70 (10,000 yen) for top-end establishments, with an average of around €5 (1,000 yen) per person per night for our customers.

By way of comparison, tourist taxes in Paris and New York City generally range from €1 to €15 per person per night.

Departure tax (出国税, Shukkoku-zei)

Since 2019, all international departures by air or sea have been subject to a 1,000 yen tax. This is generally included in the ticket price but can sometimes be paid directly at the airport in cash or by credit card. This contribution is intended to finance airport and tourist infrastructure maintenance. Please note that even transit passengers must pay this fee if their ticket does not include it.

Foreign travelers can, however, take advantage of a tax-free system. Available to temporary visitors (stays of 3 to 6 months), the "Tax Free" program offers an immediate discount at the checkout, provided certain rules are respected.

• The minimum amount is 5,000 yen (28 euros) per store per day, with no limit for durable goods.
• For consumables (food, beverages, cosmetics), the limit is 500,000 yen (2,710 euros). These must remain sealed for export outside Japan within 30 days of purchase.

Other local taxes and fees

Some regions may apply small taxes, such as entrance fees to certain temples, parks or historic gardens. These contributions are generally modest, in the order of a few hundred yen, and must be paid directly on site. Unlike the tourist tax or departure tax, their amount varies according to the site and commune in question. Combined over an extended stay, they can represent a considerable expense.