Japan tripling tourist tax starting July 1
Canadians heading to Japan will pay C$26.11 instead of C$8.70 when they leave—part of a broader push to fund tourism infrastructure.
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Japan is raising the cost of leaving the country. Starting July 1, the mandatory international tourist tax will triple from JPY 1,000 (C$8.70) to JPY 3,000 (C$26.11).
The fee—collected at departure and nicknamed the "sayonara tax"—applies to everyone leaving Japan by plane or cruise, except children under two. Airlines like WestJet will add it automatically when passengers book tickets, so travelers planning summer trips should book before the increase kicks in.
Japan joins other countries including New Zealand and Bhutan in charging tourists a departure fee. Unlike percentage-based accommodation taxes, Japan's is a flat rate. The revenue funds public works, historical site restoration, tourism resources, and airport infrastructure upgrades.
The timing reflects Japan's tourism strategy: with visits from China dropping due to rising tensions, the country is pivoting to attract travelers from North America, Europe, and Australia. In March, 79,900 Canadians visited Japan—a 17.4 per cent jump compared to the same month last year.