Oita Prefecture and local municipalities have launched an investigation into unlicensed private lodging operations ahead of the planned introduction of an accommodation tax in January 2027. Officials announced the initiative on May 26 during the first meeting of a public-private task force that includes the prefectural government, Beppu and Yufu cities, tourism organizations, police, and hotel industry groups. Authorities said some operators are offering short-term lodging without required registration under Japan’s private lodging or hotel business laws. The investigation aims to improve guest safety, address neighborhood complaints related to garbage disposal and parking, and ensure fair tax collection once the new accommodation tax is introduced. Oita plans to charge visitors between ¥100 and ¥2,000 depending on lodging costs. Registered private lodging facilities in the prefecture increased about 30 percent year-on-year as of March 2026. Source: Nikkei / OBS News
Photo: Fukuoka Now (For image purposes only)
Stay informed with the latest Fukuoka & Kyushu news and events in English. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter today and never miss a beat. Opt out anytime, your privacy is our priority. Get the inside scoop with The Now
Summaries based on public content, errors may occur during translation. Images credited independently. Send feedback using this form.