Overtourism Issues Caused by the Tokyo Tourism Rush and the Government's New Measures: Understanding the Aim of the Newly Established "Foreign Visitor Coordination Agency (Tentative Name)"

2025年07月16日 16:36

1. The Reality of Record-breaking Inbound Tourism

In 2024, the number of foreign visitors to Japan reached 36.8 million, an increase of about 15% compared to 2019. The total consumption was estimated at 8.1 trillion yen, significantly contributing to the Japanese economy. However, issues such as residential environment, public transportation congestion, and waste problems have become apparent.

1-1 Yen Depreciation and Airline Restructuring

With the continued depreciation of the yen, Japan travel has become more affordable, leading to a surge in group tourists, especially from Southeast Asia and Greater China. The route restructuring by JAL and ANA, as well as the expansion of international flights by LCCs, also supported this trend, with the number of international flight seats in 2024 reaching 108% compared to 2019.

1-2 Rapid Increase of SNS-driven Tourist Spots

Tourist spots that became popular on social media (e.g., photos of Mt. Fuji with a convenience store, hidden hot springs, anime pilgrimage sites) have quickly turned into "crowded spots." In regions with underdeveloped infrastructure, traffic accidents and waste problems are becoming severe.

2. The Social Costs of Overtourism

2-1 Impact on Living Environment

In Kyoto's Gion, unauthorized photography of maiko and trespassing on private roads have been frequent. In Kamakura, tourists flock to pedestrian routes through residential areas, creating a difficult living situation for residents.

2-2 Protection of Cultural and Natural Environments

In places like Nara Park with its deer, the hiking trails of Mt. Fuji, and the moss-covered forests of Yakushima, violations of manners and environmental destruction are occurring frequently. At the photo spot in front of the convenience store at Mt. Fuji, the situation has escalated to the point where screening fences have been installed.

2-3 Security and Infrastructure Strain

Complaints about petty crimes (shoplifting, damage to public property), loud noises, and nuisance behavior are being reported to local governments, and the increased costs for security, cleaning, and guidance personnel are straining municipal finances.

3. What is the New Government Organization "Foreigners Coordination Agency (Tentative Name)"?

3-1 Background of Establishment

The responses from agencies such as the Japan Tourism Agency, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, National Police Agency, Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs were siloed, leading to limitations in addressing issues. The government established the "Foreigners Coordination Agency (Tentative Name)" as a cross-sectional organization to integrally manage policies related to tourism, security, settlement, and employment.

3-2 Main Authorities and Measures

Management of the number of visitors at tourist sites (in collaboration with digital twins)
Strengthening of manners education for entrants (e.g., multilingual apps)
Review and registration system for restrictions on foreign real estate acquisition
Revision of requirements for converting driving licenses and national qualifications
Formulation of schemes for collecting tourism tax revenue at airports and stations and returning it to regions

3-3 Political Impact

The establishment of this agency under the Ishiba administration is an appeal to the conservative base and responds to the voices of citizens who prioritize security and order. The philosophy is not the exclusion of foreigners but the formation of an "orderly coexisting society."

4. International Comparison: Overtourism Measures in Other Countries

Italy - Venice: Introduction of an entry tax (5 euros), collaboration with congestion prediction apps
Spain - Barcelona: Regulation of Airbnb, setting limits on the number of accommodations
Iceland: Adding a tourism tax to accommodation fees for nature conservation
Thailand - Phi Phi Islands: Gradual introduction of island entry restrictions for environmental protection

5. Regional and Private Sector Initiatives

5-1 Utilization of DMO and Digital Twins

In Furano City, Hokkaido, and Onomichi City, Hiroshima, people flow sensors and SNS analysis are used to adjust tourism routes and PR strategies according to peak seasons.

5-2 Regulation of Private Lodging and Zoning

In Sapporo, "accommodation day restrictions" and "regional operational feasibility" have been introduced for private lodging operations. Consultation with local residents' associations is mandatory to prevent trouble.

6. Towards a Sustainable Tourism Nation - Policy Proposals

Legalization of tourism capacity (environmental carrying capacity) as an indicator
Gradual increase of entry tax (tourism tax) and regional reinvestment system
Strengthening "visitor education" with mandatory guideline compliance
Decentralized tourism strategy giving discretion to DMOs and municipalities
Permanent establishment of "Tourism and Living Balance Council" by municipalities

7. Future Scenarios and Prospects

The aviation industry plans to increase the number of seats supplied by 18% towards the latter half of 2025. The government tourism bureau expects "over 40 million visitors to Japan," but there are concerns about the gap with the reception system. The key will be whether the Foreigners Coordination Agency can effectively act as a mediator between citizens, tourists, and businesses.

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