Japan Departure Tax vs. Tourist Taxes: What Travelers Should Know Before Visiting Japan
If you are planning a trip to Japan, it is important to understand the difference between the departure tax and other tourist-related taxes. Japan's departure tax is a national tax charged when travelers leave the country. Other tourism-related taxes, such as accommodation and hot spring bathing taxes, may apply depending on where you stay and what facilities you use.
๐ Key Facts
Departure tax: JPY 3,000 per departure from July 1, 2026.
It generally applies regardless of nationality or travel purpose.
Eligible tickets issued by June 30, 2026, may still qualify for the previous JPY 1,000 rate.
Accommodation taxes vary by city and room rate.
Hot spring facilities may charge an additional bathing tax.
What Is Japan's Departure Tax?
Japan's official departure tax is called the International Tourist Tax. It is a national tax collected from passengers departing Japan by international aircraft or ships, regardless of whether they are tourists, business travelers, students, or Japanese residents.
As of July 1, 2026, the tax is JPY 3,000 per departure, increased from JPY 1,000. Airlines and shipping companies generally collect it as part of the ticket price, so passengers usually do not need to pay separately at the airport. A transitional measure allows the old JPY 1,000 rate for certain eligible transport contracts issued by June 30, 2026. Children under two and certain transit passengers departing within 24 hours are among those exempt.
How Is the Departure Tax Different from Other Tourist Taxes?
The departure tax is a specific national tax. The term tourist taxes is broader and can refer to local charges related to accommodation, hot springs, or other tourism services.
Tax | When It Applies | Who Sets It |
|---|---|---|
Departure tax | When leaving Japan | National government |
Accommodation tax | When staying at eligible lodging | Local government |
Bathing tax | When using qualifying hot spring facilities | Local government |
Accommodation Taxes Depend on Your Destination
Some Japanese cities charge an accommodation tax per person, per night. The amount depends on local rules and the accommodation price.
For example, Tokyo currently charges JPY 100 or JPY 200 per person per night for qualifying hotel stays. Osaka charges JPY 200 to JPY 500, depending on the accommodation price. Kyoto introduced a revised system on March 1, 2026, with rates ranging from JPY 200 to JPY 10,000 per person per night.
These taxes are generally collected by the accommodation provider. They may appear as a separate charge during booking or be collected at check-in or check-out.
Don't Forget the Hot Spring Bathing Tax
If you visit a Japanese onsen, you may also encounter a bathing tax, known in Japanese as nyutozei. This local tax is generally charged to people using qualifying hot spring facilities. The amount and exemptions depend on the municipality.
Before booking your trip, check whether your accommodation price includes local taxes. If you are staying at a traditional Japanese inn with hot spring facilities, confirm whether the bathing tax is charged separately. This simple check can help you avoid unexpected expenses during your Japan trip.