Be careful what you wish for: Japan's new departure tax

For years, Japan has been chasing bigger and bigger tourism numbers. The goal was clear: more visitors, more revenue, more global attention. And it worked; Japan hit a record 42.4 million inbound tourists in 2025 according to the Japan Times and is aiming for 60 million by 2030. But now the country is facing a new problem: overtourism.

To help manage the strain, Japan has tripled its departure tax from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 for anyone leaving the country, regardless of nationality. You won’t pay it at the airport; it’s automatically added to your ticket price for bookings made after July 1, 2026. Reportedly, the extra revenue is earmarked for overtourism countermeasures and infrastructure improvements. 

IIt’s a classic case of “be careful what you wish for.” Japan wanted more tourists, and now it has them - along with the growing pains that come with success. The departure tax is just one sign of how the country is trying to balance popularity with sustainability. But it seems too little too late.

Photo: Godzilla statue at the departure area of Haneda Airport in 2026.