Japan has announced an increase in its departure tax, raising the fee to 3,000 yen starting July 2026. The revised tax will apply to travelers leaving Japan and is part of the government’s efforts to support tourism infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and improved travel facilities.
What Is Japan’s Departure Tax?
Japan’s departure tax, officially known as the International Tourist Tax, is charged to passengers when they leave the country by air or sea. The tax is usually included in airline or cruise ticket prices, meaning travelers typically do not need to pay it separately at the airport or port.
Key Details of the Tax Increase
Here are the main points travelers should know:
How it is collected: Included in airfare or travel ticket prices
The increase marks a rise from the current rate and will impact both short-term visitors and long-term residents leaving the country.
Who Is Exempt from the Departure Tax?
Certain categories of travelers are typically exempt from Japan’s departure tax, including:
Specific exemption criteria may be clarified closer to the implementation date.
Why Japan Is Increasing the Departure Tax
The Japanese government plans to use the additional revenue to:
These steps align with Japan’s long-term tourism and economic development goals.
What This Means for Travelers
For most travelers, the increase is relatively modest but important to factor into overall travel budgets. Visitors planning trips in or after July 2026 should expect slightly higher airfare costs due to the revised tax.
Travelers are advised to:
Final Thoughts
Japan’s decision to raise its departure tax to 3,000 yen from July 2026 reflects its focus on maintaining high-quality travel infrastructure and sustainable tourism growth. While the increase may slightly affect travel costs, it aims to enhance the overall experience for visitors and residents alike.