Japan’s popular tourist spot Okinawa to levy accommodation tax
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Okinawa is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations.
PHOTO: VISIT OKINAWA JAPAN/FACEBOOK
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The prefectural assembly of Okinawa, one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, on Sept 18 passed an ordinance to impose a 2 per cent accommodation tax to support local tourism.
Due to take effect in fiscal 2026, which begins in April, it will be the first such tax of its kind at the prefectural level.
The move comes amid growing local expectations for more tourists following the July opening of the Junglia Okinawa theme park, which has boosted both domestic and foreign visitor numbers to the prefecture.
The tax for hotel and inn stays will be capped at a maximum 2,000 yen (S$17) per night. Those participating in school trips and extracurricular activities will be exempted.
The revenue, estimated at about 7.8 billion yen annually, is expected to be used to preserve the scenic landscape, secure tourism workers and enhance safety measures for marine recreation – a major attraction in Okinawa. KYODO NEWS
