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The JTA plans to inform local governments later this month that they may use local ordinances to effectively ban minpaku (民泊) private lodging in certain areas. The move is intended to help communities address complaints about noise, rubbish, and other issues linked to short-term rentals in residential neighbourhoods.
If issued, the notice would represent a shift in the agency's position. Until now, it had generally argued that outright restrictions on private lodging were inappropriate given the government's efforts to promote the sector. Under Japanese law, owners may rent out vacant homes or spare rooms to tourists for up to 180 days a year. The service has grown steadily in recent years, with around 40,700 properties registered as of May 2026. Some local governments have already sought ways to limit or effectively prohibit minpaku operations in response to residents' concerns. In a few cases, municipalities have used ordinances to reduce the annual operating limit from 180 days to zero.
If issued, the notice would represent a shift in the agency's position. Until now, it had generally argued that outright restrictions on private lodging were inappropriate given the government's efforts to promote the sector. Under Japanese law, owners may rent out vacant homes or spare rooms to tourists for up to 180 days a year. The service has grown steadily in recent years, with around 40,700 properties registered as of May 2026. Some local governments have already sought ways to limit or effectively prohibit minpaku operations in response to residents' concerns. In a few cases, municipalities have used ordinances to reduce the annual operating limit from 180 days to zero.
Japan to clear way for local gov'ts to effectively ban private lodgings - The Mainichi
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japan Tourism Agency plans to notify local governments that they may effectively ban