Viewpoint: The overtourism strain on Kyoto: Economic policies and community impacts

Abstract

This paper examines overtourism in Kyoto, Japan, focusing on its social, environmental, and economic impacts on local communities. While tourism enhances Kyoto’s cultural appeal, rising visitor numbers have intensified challenges such as overcrowding, waste accumulation, public transport strain, and housing unaffordability. Considering national and local government responses, this paper addresses the “Mind Your Manners” campaign, dual pricing strategies, accommodation tax increases, and shifting tax refund processes. Despite these efforts, consequences like gentrification, reduced resident quality of life, and emerging homelessness persist. This has led to current policy responses such as adaptive reuse of older infrastructure, stricter regulation of short-term rentals, improved sustainable transport options, and incentivized waste reduction programs. Points underscore the urgency for integrated planning that balances tourism growth with resident well-being and sustainability. Kyoto serves as a critical case for understanding how cities can address overtourism while preserving cultural identity and social cohesion.