Kyoto increases nightly accommodation tax for visitors beginning March 2026

After March 1, new rates will apply:

- Less than 6,000 yen ($40): 200 yen ($1) per person per night

- Between 6,000 and less than 20,000 yen ($132): 400 yen ($3)

- Between 20,000 and less than 50,000 yen ($331): 1,000 yen ($7)

- Between 50,000 and less than 100,000 yen ($662): 4,000 yen ($26)

- For rooms costing over 100,000 yen (about $662), guests will pay a tax of up to ¥10,000 (about $66) per person each night

The exchange rate used for these calculations was approximately one U.S. dollar to ¥152.83 at the time of writing. These figures may change if currency rates fluctuate.

For travelers booking with points through hotel loyalty programs such as World of Hyatt in Kyoto or other chains in Japan where similar taxes exist already (like Choice Privileges or IHG One Rewards), practices vary regarding whether award stays incur accommodation taxes. Some properties do not charge this tax during booking or at check-in for award bookings; others display notices that surcharges are not included in total room rates and must be paid at the hotel.

At properties like Hyatt Place Kyoto—where paid rates often fall into higher price brackets—the accommodation tax will rise from ¥1,000 to ¥4,000 per person per night under the new system. At luxury hotels such as Park Hyatt Kyoto with most nights above ¥100,000 nightly rate thresholds (about $662), guests can expect to pay up to ¥10,000 (around $66) extra each night.

Some travelers may consider redeeming points if their loyalty program exempts them from these taxes. Alternatively they might stay in nearby cities like Osaka and commute into Kyoto for day trips to avoid higher costs associated with overnight stays in Kyoto itself.

"Local authorities say the higher accommodation tax will 'enhance the city's appeal as an international cultural tourist city and promote tourism,' although the increase is also likely intended to target overtourism."