Japan's International Departure Tax Starts Next January

Above, a sumo figure at a shop in Asakusa. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Here's a reminder on the International Tourist Tax Japan (called the "Sayonara Tax" by some) will be imposing next year.

From the Japan National Tourism Organization:

Effective from Monday, 7th January 2019, visitors to Japan will pay a 1,000 yen departure tax to expand and enhance the country’s tourist infrastructure — a small tax that will make a significant difference.

Revenue from the International Tourist Tax will be allocated to the following three areas:

1. Create a more comfortable, stress-free tourist environment.
2. Improve access to information about a wide variety of attractions of Japan.
3. Develop tourist resources taking advantage of the unique cultural and natural assets of respective regions

The International Departure Tax is roughly $10.00.

To read more, go here.