Japan's Tourist Tax Measures: Combating Overtourism and Maximizing Donor Impact

Japan has implemented a tourist tax at the popular Itsukushima Shrine in an effort to combat overtourism. Each visitor to the shrine's access point on Miyajima island is now charged 100 yen ($0.67), with the funds going towards improving tourism infrastructure and encouraging ecotourism in the area. The tax was originally scheduled to roll out in 2021 but was delayed due to the pandemic. The initiative aims to create a hospitable environment for tourists while securing the livelihood of islanders and preserving the shrine for future generations.