Japan Tourist Tax: What Travelers need to know for 2025

Japan applies a mandatory international tourist tax to most travelers departing the country. Commonly known as the Sayonara Tax, it is officially called the Japan International Tourist Tax. The fee helps support tourism infrastructure, cultural preservation, and improvements across Japan’s major airports and ports.

This guide explains how much the tax is, who pays it, how it is collected, and what travelers should expect when leaving Japan.

How much is the Japan Tourist Tax?

Japan charges a flat JPY 1,000 (approximately USD 7) per person. This is a departure tax, meaning it applies when travelers leave Japan, not when they arrive. The fee is included in almost all airline and cruise fares automatically.

Some cities (e.g., Tokyo, Kyoto) impose separate local accommodation taxes (¥100–¥300/night), which aren't national but affect most stays.

Who must pay the Tourist Tax?

The tax applies to:

• All foreign tourists departing Japan

• Japanese nationals departing the country

• Travelers leaving by air or by sea

• Visitors using commercial carriers or cruise ships

It is universal and applied regardless of purpose (tourism, business, study, etc.).

Who is Exempt?

Japan provides exemptions for:

• Children under two years old

• Transit passengers staying less than 24 hours

• People forced to turn back due to weather or operational issues

• Crew members on duty

• Diplomats and official government representatives

Most travelers fall into the standard category and pay the tax automatically.

How is the Tourist Tax Collected?

Travelers do not pay the tax separately at the airport.

It is automatically included in:

• Airline ticket prices

• Cruise fares

• International transportation packages

Airlines and cruise lines remit the amount to Japanese authorities on behalf of passengers.

You will see it listed as “International Tourist Tax” or “Japan Departure Tax” in the fare breakdown.

Why Japan Charges this Tax

Japan introduced the tourist tax to:

• Support international tourism development

• Modernize airport infrastructure

• Improve multilingual signage and accessibility

• Enhance public transit links

• Fund cultural site preservation

• Support tourism programs in rural regions

The goal is to improve the travel experience and distribute tourist benefits across Japan.

Does the Tax Apply to Re-entry or Domestic Flights?

No.
The tax only applies to international departures. Domestic travel within Japan is not subject to the tourist tax.

Do Cruise Passengers Pay the Japan Tourist Tax?

Yes.
Cruise passengers departing Japanese ports also pay the JPY 1,000 levy. It is included in the cruise fare when leaving Japan.

Transit-only cruise stops do not trigger the tax unless the passenger permanently disembarks in Japan and later departs internationally from a Japanese port.

References

• Japan Ministry of Finance. International Tourist Tax. https://www.mof.go.jp

• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). https://www.japan.travel

• Narita International Airport. https://www.narita-airport.jp

Disclaimer:
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