Tourists to Japan Should Pay More? | Two-tier Pricing Coming for Himeji Castle & Japanese Food

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Simple: Avoid “tourist prices” by avoiding tourist trap areas. The two-tier pricing seems to be only in places where it’s mostly tourists. Most of the over tourism is at the same places. Just go someplace more local, authentic. Tsukiji, for example, is not authentic nor cheap even though it should be. Get away from Tokyo. Kyoto. Try local prefectural cities instead. Same as in any other country, isn’t it? Two-tier is a hard sell but local family box has little choice. They can’t lose their regulars even though they are with the declining population. They’ll have to choose one pricing or give our loyalty cards or something. What do you think? Again, it’s not all of Japan, just tourist spots that are massively overcrowded where you could expect to pay much more.

[@Galanydd]

John I think double pricing is discriminatory and unfair. I agree that a weak yen leads to inflation and therefore importing raw materials and high tourism lead to economic problems, but this is not the way. I live in Italy and the problems of inflation with high interest rates as well as taxes that are around 22% have led us to be freer than 20/30 years ago, but we are the 3rd country in the world as visitors while Japan is 8, and we never thought of raising prices just for tourists. Here prices have risen for everyone, and salaries have not increased, no one has given us discounts or loyalty cards because we are Italian, when we go out we spend like tourists. Then obviously here too there are tourist places where the shopkeepers take advantage of them, but 1. they do it with everyone, even with the locals and 2. they are only in certain areas (squares, beaches etc...) not in the whole city and not all over the country. So either the government increases wages or the shops will have to increase prices for everyone without a two tier system which is unfair to make us pay for your mistakes, also because you are not a third world country but a rich country and the 4th world power. If you are ungrateful with tourists they will stop and when the yen recovers you will regret it... if not Japan's aim to deal with overtourism by abandoning omotenashi.

[@discinfiltrator_games]

​@@Galanyddyeah Spain is absolutely the same thing. You know, locals just don't go eat paella in Plaza Mayor 😂. You just do your own research about where to find stuff at an affordable price.

[@Galanydd]

@@discinfiltrator_games Exactly. Prices are high for everyone and only tourists go to Plaza Mayor 😅 I was there 2 years ago and I only had a coffee, I preferred to eat in other places where it cost less 😅 I love Madrid, Toledo and Valencia 😍

[@mvieira13]

I really hope they don't implement this two-tier pricing system across the board because that would make tourists feel discriminated against. I don't care if shops inside tourist traps charge more because I can spot them a mile away and avoid them. Also, what is the deal with this 'over tourism' thing? I think it is a loaded term. To put it simply, Japan is a popular destination for tourists and it is dealing with the problems that any other country with high tourism has to deal with. Japan has total control on who enters the country or not, they issue the visas. Why complain that the country has too many tourists? The Japanese government should step up and do a better job instead of throwing tourists under the bus when they are happy enough to let them in and take their money.

[@Galanydd]

@@mvieira13 I agree 101%. The problem is government not tourists . France is first in the world for tourism and quantity of tourists every year, many more than Japan, almost double, but I don't think they have adopted a two tier system.

[@BubbaBearsFriend]

It's normal for businesses to charge more in touristy areas in the US. However to charge one price for goods for locals and another higher one for foreigners is gouging.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

It’s a hard system to sell - if they’re transparent and not hiding the fact, it’ll be better in the long run, but I can’t see any local biz staying in business without raising prices somewhere. Tourists won’t be regulars, but it’s hard to raise prices much for regulars. Local biz is taking a beating, so many going under because costs are too high with the weak yen. It’s a sticky situation with no good solutions in 2024, the year of stagnant wages.

[@kevincobb3910]

One of the attractions of visiting Japan is our money goes a long way, take that away and, a lot of us just won’t go there anymore. Luckily I’ve been there pre covid and pre gouging. I won’t be going back until I see the “testing” is over.

[@Herr.Mitternacht]

They should do the same as in Europe. Higher wages and higher prices. If Japan doesn't want their own people to earn more money then don't put it on the tourists. That's laughable and will break the industry.

[@johnsmith02]

@@Herr.Mitternacht you haven’t studied the economics, have you? It’s not as simple as your brain can process.

[@Herr.Mitternacht]

@@johnsmith02 I actually have a degree in Political Science and a major in Macro Economics from the UCA in Buenos Aires. If you believe wages should stay stagnated in an economy where prices are rising then just don't consider running for office 😂

[@TechInTheCityHonolulu]

In Hawaii it is fairly common for some types of businesses to offer a Kama’aina discount to local residents in order to attract the locals to come to see the tourist type locations, participate in visitor type activities and stay at the visitor oriented hotels. They typically have the posted price for entry, activities, etc.. To qualify for the Kama’aina Discount for local residents… you must show a Hawaii Drivers License or Hawaii State I.D..

[@janeg4257]

If a restaurant charges more for me as a foreigner, I’d just go somewhere else

[@onlyinjapanGO]

You SHOULD go someplace else. Few locals will eat overhyped street food by “influencers” at Tsukiji anymore or any tourist trap. Just go 1km away to Shinbashi.

[@banana-f3r]

Exactly. If you have an issue with the price, don't come. You're welcomed to go somewhere else.

[@gio_7077]

@@banana-f3r hmm no its more like having a issue with the pricing based off simply where you are from.

[@JayBChannel-q3x]

They arent charging more because you are a foreigner. Its because you are a foreign TOURIST. I am a foreign RESIDENT and would get the local rate with proof of residency. It isnt discrimination.

[@janeg4257]

@@JayBChannel-q3x I completely disagree. Where I live, tourists and locals are charged the same. Anyway. There are plenty of places that dont have dual pricing, so I would go there instead, no big deal

[@DiamondNinjaPig]

I’m a simple man. I see two tier pricing, I don’t buy.

[@luapl3007]

agreed.. there r still plenty of cheap eats in japan. sad to see when country economy is not well managed and the cost is passthru to tourist...

[@Galanydd]

​@@luapl3007 true, is the problem

[@MrDecessus]

True but considering that the area is basically for tourist for the most part I see no issue. Nothing in this world is free. Not even life.

[@nealschmitt570]

Simple is not better. Life is much more complicated than that.

[@SBakall2]

Sounds like a slippery slope when you start with dual pricing and it creates resentment.. Just bec a tourist can afford to come to Japan doesn't mean they want to pay more than a local to eat the same bowl of ramen. Why does Japan want to penalize visitors for their own problems? A visitor from Canada has nothing to do with the shrinking population of Japan so why penalize them for it? The Yen is tanking but is it the tourist to blame for it? so why penalize the tourist? I can guarantee once the yen goes up, tourism will drop.. Japan is not seeing the forest thru the trees, I'm afraid.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Agreed, so tourists should stop going to tourist traps like Tsukiji, but they don’t. So if tourists keep paying and are happy with the prices that’s the price. But places outside Tsukiji cannot stay in biz without raising prices but can’t for local customers who haven’t had a pay raise in decades. It’s a very slippery slope in 2024 and maybe better in 2025 is wages go up. They can raise prices like everywhere else around the world without a two-tier system.

[@SBakall2]

@@onlyinjapanGO Every city has tourists traps.. and locals all know to not go there.. but many tourists don't have a clue. They continue to be told that that's where you want to go for the experience all over the internet so that's where they go.. And, not all tourists are smart or do their homework to know where else to go.. I would think places outside of Tsukiji would do better charging their regular prices rather than increasing them to meet Tsukiji's prices. The people that needs to adjust their prices are the vendors in Tsukiji.. If they lowered their prices, maybe some of the locals could come back. And who said tourists are happy to pay those exorbitant prices? I know I wouldn't be happy about it.. Most tourists simply don't know any better.. I am making my 7th trip back to Japan in 8 years.. I have been to Tokyo only 3 of those trips.. I have only walked thru Tsukiji once just to see it. We never ate there.

[@banana_necessary]

​@@onlyinjapanGO Its not unique to Japan or Tokyo. Go to China town in London and the prices are jacked up, partly due to rent being so high in the area but also as its a tourist trap, you walk 10-15 minutes outside of the area and you can still get Chinese food but without the jacked up prices. The locals all know this. Every major tourists city has areas like this. You are not charged more due to your ethnicity/country of origin you are charged more as you are in a tourist hotspot.

[@LiterallyJustAnActualPotato]

I agree. If the roles were reversed and the usd (my currency) was weak, I can’t imagine feeling okay with shops charging visitors more money for the same thing just because their currency is stronger. It feels sketchy/wrong, like all of those shops that rip people off in tourist areas in various countries. Obviously it happens, but I don’t know think most people think it’s a good/ethical thing to do. Everyone sees those people as kind of slimy.

[@Galanydd]

@@SBakall2I agree.

[@tkyap2524]

Without a doubt, a two-tier system of charging is discriminatory. Tourism is revenue. The allure of Japan may take a hit.

[@Boomdizzle99]

Its not that much revenue....not even accounting for 5% of gdp...theres more issues with tourism than there are benefits.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Tourism leads to more people coming, to live here recently. The industry is booming. I think the number on the rev don’t include all the ways it impacts the economy. The tax dollars the foreigners working in hospitality here for one thing. Entrepreneurs from abroad have been booming here too.

[@gotakazawa408]

@@onlyinjapanGO However, it is a double-edged sword. While there are certainly positive aspects, there are also negative ones. For example, in Tokyo, the entry of capital from certain countries has caused cremation fees to skyrocket, which has become a significant issue. I can't mention other problems here as they might set a bad precedent.

[@mimistak]

What drugs do you take ?? ​@@Boomdizzle99 dude 😂😂😂😂

[@neubro1448]

Another thing is that the tourism industry don't create many well paying jobs. Many jobs are in hospitality, retail, food service, tour guides, shuttle service drivers, concierge. Many are part time and have high turnover rates. Serving to the clientele who are a lot more privileged. Unless you're hotel management or a business owner.

[@sshark5007]

No. I’m from New Zealand, and Japanese tourists used to come in droves in the 80s and 90s when the yen was all powerful and the Japanese economy was strong, and we didn’t try and raise the prices on them. Why should Japan charge us more now the tables have turned

[@johnsmith02]

It was from one country back in those days for you vs rest of the world for Japan now, including the alleged most populous nation who now have money to travel.

[@c8linlou]

I was in Hawaii in 2007, Japanese would come over for the weekend just to spend money. Plus, one day the Yen will be strong again, do they want this to happen to them when they are traveling?

[@25xhenry]

Hahaahahahha

[@jasonbroad5478]

I just commented about the same issue that occurred in NYC. Japanese tourists were cleaning out the stores and eating everything in sight and NO ONE changed prices. Its BS!

[@johnsmith02]

@@jasonbroad5478 I can't imagine all the Japanese tourists ate like Kobayashi.

[@gimmedavidb]

Just because the U.S. dollar has a significantly higher value compared to the yen does not mean that the average American tourist can afford 10,000 yen ($65) for a wagyu beef skewer. Seems like these food stand owners don't understand that.

[@jeta1-fsii63]

Then don't buy them and don't go to japan... its not like they are begging you to go...

[@benevolentrosegirl]

Reality is Japan needs the tourists​@@jeta1-fsii63

[@ebismusic8813]

Once resentment sets in it’s hard to reverse. I’m talking about resentment both ways - that felt by the locals of over tourism, and that felt by tourists feeling alienated and prejudiced against

[@ebismusic8813]

I went to Japan every year for five years up to 2019 - then returned in 2023. I felt in 2023 less welcomed John, and that the open welcome had lessened. I can understand the locals are simply fed up of all the tourists. Sadly for me it will be a while before I return. Shame 😢

[@planesrift]

I'm okay with paying extra tax as a tourist, but I'm very against two-tier pricing, that's just disgusting.

[@epifanny]

I think the assumption that most tourists can afford these prices is incorrect, many tourists to Japan do not earn in USD.

[@TC-ds3yr]

An outsider will go to a place once. Locals can go multiple times and these places can offer memberships and discounts for locals. It's harder to justify dual pricing at restaurants and I would avoid dual pricing places. For buffets, they can offer separate pricing based on what they offer and not based on what language you speak.

[@blueriddinghood]

Hi, John! Putting in my two cents here as a Southeast Asian. Thanks for noting that the issue is not that fair for neighboring countries with equally struggling economies. Consider already the hurdles that some nationalities have just to enter Japan: we pay for our visas, get denied if we appear to have inadequate incomes, and if this two-tier pricing gets implemented -- it feels like getting punished for wanting to enjoy the culture of a country. It almost sounds xenophobic the way that they want to categorize people, and it WILL weigh (unfairly) heavier for visitors from developing countries. Granted that Japan wants help with their economy, but wasn't that the reason why they're pushing for tourism really hard after the pandemic? And also, it runs counter to the tax-free incentives that tourists get in some places. So, why not just remove that incentive, label that tax , and put it in a government subsidy to help heavily touristed cities in a way that is better distributed for its populace? Japan's biggest problem is not the tourists. But it's beginning to feel like they're the scapegoats for what the government couldn't resolve.

[@gotakazawa408]

I think your point is spot on. It seems like the Japanese government is solely focused on increasing the number of tourists. Personally, I believe they should target increasing tax revenue from tourism. This approach has led to frustration among many Japanese who not only don't benefit but also find life more challenging. There's a need for the government to adopt a mindset that fairly distributes the benefits gained from tourism to the entire population. Moreover, the current administration's tactics of deceiving the public into unnecessary tax hikes only add to the discontent, which unfortunately is being directed towards tourists. However, adopting such measures could potentially increase financial burdens for those entering Japan. Personally, this is a troubling aspect, but it's also true that some Japanese feel their lives have become more difficult due to an increase in foreign tourists.

[@trillstarman]

👏

[@Wha2les]

I don't mind if they charge local lower prices... but 30 dollars to go to Himeiji castle is frankly too high. If they do that, I'll just stop by Himeiji Train Station, take a few photos and leave...

[@ktkace]

Thats the end goal isnt it? to allivate overcrowding.

[@aibao_eipariru_april]

Yeah the overcrowding will definitely drop when people just don’t go

[@knock-knockwhosthere9933]

Increase one dollar😂

[@Wha2les]

@@aibao_eipariru_april well I've also been to himeiji, so I might as well skip. Now that jr rail is too expensive to touch, one need to plan stops wisely.

[@garcurran5079]

​@@aibao_eipariru_aprilAnd they will lose all the funds they thought they would gain!

[@BlackBaneWH]

Not all international visitors are from Europe or the USA and get such good exchange rates.

[@Glorlyg]

And not from West EU bc the east part also low income.

[@davec8153]

10k yen is not affordable, even in dollars... Those skewers at Tsukiji are definitely HUGE rip offs. It's more egregious that this is during lunch (aka if you ate at a restaurant it would be the often much cheaper lunch menu). Go to a decent wagyu restaurant or sushi restaurant instead, and they don't even have to be hard to reserve. The Ushigoro restaurants are pretty easy to reserve for wagyu courses, and the Ginza Kyubey restaurants are a good intro to high end sushi (including otoro) + very foreign friendly. Please don't support these blatantly rip off shops in Tsukiji.

[@jeta1-fsii63]

Tsujiki was a tourist trap for a long time! Why people are acting surprised all of a sudden... Tourist price gouging happens everywhere in the world.

[@ndlovulwazi]

If I find out there changed me more because I’m foreign I would be pissed off .

[@onlyinjapanGO]

If they’re transparent about it, I don’t see why. If they hide it, I definitely would not be happy. If paying with a foreign credit card or something … maybe that’s how they assess the price. I dunno, but it’s got to be transparent to all.

[@ndlovulwazi]

@@onlyinjapanGOthe problem is that it incentivises other people to start doing the same thing with other services tho .

[@Herr.Mitternacht]

The people who are in favor of the two tier system are absolutely delusional. I have a bar in Berlin and would not even think of charging people differently according to their nationality. EU, America, Africa, all the same. The government screwed up and now the tourists have to fix it? C'mon guys.

[@tobiash1753]

@@onlyinjapanGO Then perhaps they should bring back segregated toilets too. They should put up a big sign "Dogs and foreigners not allowed." Transparency doesn't mean anything, if it is unfair in the first place.

[@bombardamaxima5505]

Go to Europe, every touristic places such as Arc de Triomphe charge you, but free for EU residents

[@MikeatTrajectories]

It’s difficult for outsiders to understand how Japanese can’t express the honne that’s actually going on now. Japan moves at a glacial pace and they can’t adapt to the fact that they aren’t shimaguni anymore. There’s a real world out there and it’s difficult for them to cope with that. How can Japan really do tourism? Especially in Tokyo. The economy has been mismanaged for years. Has anyone used the Kyoto metro recently? Where does it go? That’s why clueless tourists crowd the buses and get so many locals irritated. Japan is not built for tourists. I would say one needs to be open and welcoming, not tatemae. That gets tiresome real fast. Foreigners suss that out pretty quickly.

[@chrisandanna8265]

How quickly people forget just a few years ago when there were no tourists and how hard life was then for businesses. Can't have it both ways.

[@林遼太朗-w2e]

Japan doesn’t want to depend on tourism. They think tourism should be extra profit,not a main industry.

[@AllysonHironaga-Ahakuelo]

Hawaii has local / non local fees at local attractions ie: Hanauma Bay, the Aquarium, zoo and many other places.

[@menetherin]

I really enjoyed the clips from NHKJohn. I trust your advice and news. It made me realize you should do more news segments often

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

There are so many complexities with a two-tier pricing system. Economies/currency exchange all over the world shrink and then grow again, it's a matter of riding the wave. Currently Japan is enjoying mass tourism turning profits for businesses. During CV Japanese businesses were going broke due to no tourists visiting. A 2 tier pricing system would only bring about a sour taste in the mouth of past, returning, and potential tourists to Japan. Japan is a 1st world country and is currently the 4th biggest economy in the world, we're not talking about a third world country here. During 2016-2019 it cost Australians 119-127c to buy 100 YEN but we didn't see any tourist discount pricing or vouchers for visitors. Currently at last, AU100c = 100yen, not all currencies worldwide are killing it against the Yen. Japan needs to be very careful that the introduction of a two-tier pricing system could come back to bite them socially, economically and racially on a world stage. Australia takes in touring visitors from all over the world, visitors from the USA pay US65c for a AU$1 product in Australia and they're welcome to do so ... at no surcharge. Japan's government needs to come up with solutions to ease the financial burden on Japanese citizens internally without leaning on visitors to their country.

[@laserbeam_]

Charging two-tier prices just because the USD is strong is so asinine. Not all international travellers to Japan operate with USD. As a non-American-non-USD person, if I saw a higher price on the English menu/for tourists, I'd leave. My dollar isn't as strong and I have to be smart when spending it in Japan.

[@flibblesan]

Having higher prices for tourists is just going to drive tourists away to other places that don't try and rip tourists off, although I suspect thats exactly what they want. Seems Japan has become quite anti-tourism recently and its super depressing.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

I still see massive lines at Tsukiji. It’s a hard time for Japan. The weak yen is destroying local biz, but they can’t raise prices much or lose local customers who are regulars. It’s having your cake and eating it too - but to survive. Tsukiji is plainly a tourist trap. If people pay, that’s the price. Same as the $1200 iPhone and $5000 laptop.

[@gotakazawa408]

As a Japanese person, I feel that public opinion in Japan is divided on the issue of tourism. On one hand, many of us want to share our unique culture with visitors, but on the other, there is a desire to protect our daily lives from disruption. This sentiment isn’t necessarily directed at foreigners; rather, it’s akin to the feeling of residents who have been living quietly suddenly finding themselves in a noisy environment.

[@InV1sible9688]

​@@onlyinjapanGOya but that isn't the fault of foreigners. Would u rather have some business or no tourist business at all? The optics looks terrible

[@graces1324]

we are not talking about Tsukiji and Himeji only here. the issue is going to affect all prices most especially the tourist spots in all of japan. solution is not to penalize tourists for being tourists. it feels like being a tourist in japan is bad because tourists are expected to pay more to “subsidize” what the locals can’t afford. just like in any other bad economy, locals should learn to adjust and tighten the belt. don’t expect your “visitors” to pay more so they can partly pay for what you can’t afford. im okay for discounts for locals only instead of dual pricing which is discriminatory to tourists.

[@gotakazawa408]

@@graces1324 I'm Japanese, and while I agree with your opinion as being reasonable, it also saddens me. Nowadays, many Japanese feel that even convenience store items are expensive, and they often buy daily necessities from nearby discount supermarkets. Unfortunately, Japanese people are not as affluent as travelers from overseas might think.

[@colinmathie2710]

The more stories i see like this, the more it feels like Japan are definitely trying to drive tourists away, i really dont get it.

[@gotakazawa408]

I'm an average Japanese person, but I'd like to know why it's come to this. In Japan, where the poverty rate is relatively high, it seems like the current situation is only being maintained by the patient people. In other countries, it would not be surprising if riots broke out.

[@rokmare]

It's a sense of national pride they rather suffer with dignity than prosper with disgrace

[@JayBChannel-q3x]

You dont get it? Well for starters, Fujikawaguchiko: Littering,Trespassing, vandalism, obstructing traffic, harassment.. Kyoto: Assaults on geisha, harassment, vandalism, littering, trespassing, theft. (Not paying fares on busses) . Tokyo: Littering, public drunkenness, harassment, theft. Riding bullet trains without paying fare to Kyoto and boasting about it on social media. Thats not enough for you to get why the locals are fed up with tourists. Tourists abuse the kindness of the culture here and treat this country like its their personal theme park. I have yet to see a tourist see it from Japan's point of view bcause many tourist, not all, behave like spoiled, entitled children.

[@takosdon7754]

@@rokmare that interpretation is incorrect because they are currently suffering from the increase in foreign tourists. no honor has been brought to them by foreign tourists.

[@rokmare]

@@takosdon7754 That's what I meant by prosper with disgrace and suffer with dignity with inflation going up in Japan many local stores can't operate and make profit like they used to but tourist helps cause they can pay higher prices to keep them a float but at the cost of disrupting the local population if it was in China or South Korea business would gladly cater to the tourist but Japan is different in that regard

[@MichaelJ-t7h]

I’m from Orlando and back in the day if you were a resident of Orlando you would get a discount at tourist places. But with that being said why should tourist be penalized for Japans financial incompetence?

[@gotakazawa408]

In reality, contrary to how it may appear from abroad, the lives of Japanese people living in Japan are not generally affluent, except for some. While it's true that tourists are being targeted, many Japanese are also targeted by a government inclined towards tax hikes. A lot of Japanese are fed up with the policies of the current administration.

[@GinJ1337]

it's not common in developed countries from what I've seen to charge tourists more. it's common in developing countries though

[@gotakazawa408]

@@GinJ1337 This is my personal opinion as a Japanese person. In 2021, Japan's relative poverty rate was 15.4%. According to the OECD, the rate in the U.S. was 15.1% in 2021, and in the U.K., it was 11.2% in 2020. This means that, in reality, only the government and a select few in Japan are wealthy. The total amount of taxes and social insurance premiums paid by the average working individual is nearly 50% of their income, which is at its limit. This clearly indicates a policy failure, and it can be said that the nation is sustained by the remarkable patience of its citizens.

[@MichaelJ-t7h]

@@gotakazawa408sounds a lot like America

[@gotakazawa408]

@@MichaelJ-t7h Economically, they might be similar. However, in Japan, there isn't much public outcry from citizens, which is a significant difference. I'm often amazed by the patience of Japanese people myself.

[@MichaelJ-t7h]

How do you determine who’s a tourist and who’s a local? For instance I’m American and I lived in Japan for four years. During my time living there would I be considered a local or a tourist? If a Japanese-American comes to visit Japan do they get the local price or tourist price?

[@picknick21]

I guess you'd have to show your papers or a QR code everytime you go somewhere. It's mad.

[@JayBChannel-q3x]

Your ID

[@SDZ675]

A lot of things in Japan already discriminates or forbids foreigners. If they don't want foreigners to come just say so. It's not our fault the exchange rate is so bad for the Japanese. That's entirely down to their central banking.

[@jok2000]

One miserable old guy running a hole-in-the-wall grease pit does not make foreign policy. I'd wager he/they want to retire anyway.

[@johnsmith02]

Those who don't want foreigners are already saying so. That's not the collective opinion of the country. Can't you tell the difference?

[@加藤涼介-c1t]

If you are dissatisfied, don’t come.

[@jeta1-fsii63]

don't like it don't go! its free market! the world is big enough with lots of other choice.

[@nakamura30800]

They won’t say it openly but they are doing everything they can on their reach to discriminate foreigners coming to Japan at a society level.

[@SopiBdg]

I agree with some of the comments about the 2 tier prices at museums, historical places, etc. However, if I have to pay 1500 yen for just a standard bowl of ramen (the one that usually costs 900-1100) then one can only imagine the high price tourists have to pay for sashimi, sushi, and wagyu. I probably choose my local 2000 yen ramen bowl without the hassle of flying, transport, waiting and walking, the language barrier, and the 2-tier pricing thing. Some call it over-tourism now, but they also must remember that some tourists come because Japan is affordable. If the 2-tier pricing is adopted by most restaurants, then I'm sure it will soon adopted for transport and other services. When this happens, don't be surprised if you start to see "Visit Japan" ads in various airports and planes.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

At a tourist area anywhere in the world, isn’t it expected? They should just raise the price and not make it two tier - they’ll lose their regulars but hard to “have your cake and eat it too” so to speak. But that’s what small family biz needs to stay in business. Can’t lose locals even through they’re declining with the population. Hard balance. If you avoid these tourist traps, you avoid the high pricing.

[@travisalexphoto]

​@@onlyinjapanGOIf your talking about higher end stays, resorts and commercial attractions, I can agree, but for everyday actives and what's available when visiting a city? Absolutely not.

[@SDF_Gamuru]

I mean, this is one way to lower the amount of overtourism in these areas. Personally, I don't really care to visit the castle or tsukiji market. I'm just wanting to walk around, ride trains, hit up some vending machines, shop a little, and get good street food. So for me, it's all good as long as this doesn't become the standard across the board. Just don't hit up the generic tourist spots, and you should be fine.

[@gilmartinez2410]

$25 to $65 dollars for street food. No way! That’s taking advantage

[@RandomSynr]

Just raise the prices across the board, post a sign that says show your local ID to get a discount. Tourists don't feel penalized directly. Locals get a benefit.

[@ebismusic8813]

That would have better optics all round

[@randkorp2003]

What about foreigner residents? Do they pay tourist prices? I guarantee most commenting on this video, including the author of the video, don't know the core problems

[@RyuNoKami]

Hence the resident card that shows you live there

[@randkorp2003]

@@RyuNoKami And whats next? Having to present your my number card?? The whole idea of charging tourists extra is just pure greed and borderline racist, and its a good way to discourage tourism.

[@takigan]

Yup. It's like "Hey locals, we know you've already seen this place before, so you can get a discount but everyone else has to pay more".

[@IqbalKurniawan]

14:59 my thoughts exactly! as an Indonesian myself, it was as if John was reading my mind 😅 before I learned where and how to buy affordable tasty foods in Japan, I always stuck to convenience store bentos. they're the safe and affordable options for budget tourists, like I was in 2012. i'm also not a fan of foreigner tax but am not opposed to it. the locals should be careful not to overstep or they will lose the foreign tourists too.

[@gotakazawa408]

As a Japanese person, personally, I find this issue quite challenging. Even convenience store bentos now feel expensive to many Japanese. Consequently, those who find it difficult to spend 100 yen on a bottle of water opt to visit cheaper supermarkets where they can get it for 40 yen, and where bentos are sold for as little as 198 yen. Therefore, contrary to how it might appear from abroad, the lives of Japanese people living in Japan are not generally affluent, except for some. The current government's lack of understanding of this reality has contributed to historically low approval ratings.

[@IqbalKurniawan]

​@@gotakazawa408 I'm sorry to hear that even convenience store bentos can be considered luxury by many Japanese nowadays. they are supposed to be affordable to everyone, especially for the locals. as a citizen from a third-world country, we also had our share when our economy plummeted and everything seemed to be expensive. but don't lose heart. I hope the situation will get better soon.

[@gotakazawa408]

@@IqbalKurniawan Thank you for your Comment. Currently, there are over 100,000 immigrants from Indonesia in Japan, making up a significant portion of the foreign population. While it's true that they are not living in wealth, many Japanese people are also living under similar conditions. It would be great if the government and its policies could change for the better. Despite the fact that the weak yen alone has increased government revenue by over 10 trillion yen without any additional effort, there was still an increase in social insurance premiums this year.

[@axios101]

My two cents: it's the residents who should pay less.... a little bit more from tourists is to be expected, PROVIDED that "plus" services are given... example: english menus and a little bit more patience when ordering.... Personally I am willing to pay a bit more if this means to have a more "tailored" service (not a good or professional service which should be always guaranteed, but a little bit "foreing oriented" one) and to help local businesses... BUT I am NOT willing to be "ripped off" only because I am a gaijin... 😅

[@JayBChannel-q3x]

Youre right . But many tourists do not see the extra amount of time, labor, and cost is given to accommodate tourists. Everything is supposed to be done for them alongside the red carpet that is supposed to be rolled out for them when they are here.

[@TUCKER332005]

so is it going to be ok for other countries to charge Japanese tourists more at restaurants and attractions? population problems? there are almost as many people in Tokyo as there are in all of Canada

[@moriganbecks4811]

When I've been to Japan i really don't go to main attractions but just let my feet take me wherever. Increasing prices is common wherever you go but let's be fair about it.

[@ericswann1417]

1. The fee for Himeji Castle would still be a bargain at 2000 yen. 2. It's completely reasonable for tourists who live in the areas from which tax money is raised to fund a tourist site to pay a lower fee than those who do not live in that area, being as the locals are already paying upkeep on the site through taxes. Similar pricing structures are present already here in the USA. For example, the San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park is free for residents of the city, while others pay $14. That's perfectly reasonable. However, tiered payment for places such as restaurants that aren't funded by taxes is a problem.

[@1004bs]

I think the Japanese workers need a wage increase. The wages are too low for such a wealthy nation.

[@gotakazawa408]

In 2021, Japan's relative poverty rate was 15.4%. According to the OECD, the rate in the U.S. was 15.1% in 2021, and in the U.K., it was 11.2% in 2020. This means that, in reality, only the government and a select few in Japan are wealthy. The total amount of taxes and social insurance premiums paid by the average working individual is nearly 50% of their income, which is at its limit. This clearly indicates a policy failure, and it can be said that the nation is sustained by the remarkable patience of its citizens.

[@TheKerokitty]

I can see having discount prices for locals in the area vs people visiting the area (even Japanese people who are visiting the area), because the discount for locals increases potential for a large amount of repeat visitors. In regards to restaurants though, as a person who lived in Japan and can easily use a Japanese menu, I am going to find it bizarre that I will now be motivated to ask for a Japanese menu for a monetary reason instead of just for practicing reading my kanji (or in some places getting a more expanded menu). In 'touristy' areas there has ALWAYS been a skew in prices all over the world. The prices in an Nintendo World or a Disney park are a perfect example of how tourism comes with built in inflation.

[@ruchan242]

I wonder if restaurant owners are taking matters into their own hands because the government isn't doing enough. :) I would happily pay a city tax to support the local governments and people, but frown at the thought of facing discrimination in restaurants or other establishments.

[@gotakazawa408]

I'm Japanese, and your opinion is absolutely correct. For instance, the "No Entry" signs on private roads in Gion, Kyoto, were put up by residents themselves, not by the government or local authorities.

[@wendyon4517]

"Non-local and foreign tourists" means exactly that. Anyone living outside of the the chosen area pays more. They should say they are raising prices but giving locals a discount.

[@picknick21]

How about when someone from Hokkaido visits Kansai? Maybe they should pay more too since they aren't local? I think it's a very bad thing.

[@ElmoTinker]

​@picknick21 I think when he means "local", he is speaking of a Japanese citizen/resident.

[@michaelgamas2399]

How about a mixed Japanese living in Japan? He will be mistaken as a non local.

[@ElmoTinker]

@@michaelgamas2399 living in Japan would entail that he's a resident

[@wendyon4517]

@@michaelgamas2399 The idea is more like "if you are a Washington D.C. resident then you get a discount. If you aren't then you pay the full price". All you need to prove is that you are a resident of the area in question. It doesn't matter what race or nationality you have.

[@davec8153]

I think most of Asia should start charging Japanese tourists more with a two tier system. They're one of the wealthiest nations (per capita) in Asia so it's fair game right?

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Note: Japanese are NOT traveling as much outside the country. In that case, you might want to incentivize depending on how much you’re making.

[@Herr.Mitternacht]

They should. If Japan charges Asian tourists more than Asian business owners should do the same.

[@LeeLloyd]

This is really the problem right here. We all know that "tourist prices" are going to mean "the price for anyone who isn't Japanese." The thing is, the Japanese are acting like the entire world outside of Japan is just America and China. Japan is a rich nation. Richer than most of Europe. Richer than most of Asia. Richer than all of South America. But they are acting like anyone who comes to Japan is some rich American or Chinese, trying to take advantage of Japan's economic problems. When actually, a lot of the immigrants working in Japan are from places far poorer than Japan, and came here to try and make a better life in a country with more opportunity.

[@gagamba9198]

@@onlyinjapanGO One may retaliate on other ways. For example, increase the import tariffs on Japanese-made goods. 'It's a pity there's a 1000% import tariff of Toyotas now. Oh well, live and learn.' Even more persuasive if several countries agree to do so.

[@redbananagreen]

They have 2 tiers in nyc. Penny for nyc residents and 30 for tourists for museums. Ferry prices too.

[@jasont5216]

I'm from Hawaii, and I remember back in the 80's and early 90's when the Japanese economy was booming, many restaurants had a Japanese menu which was much higher priced. I felt this was very unfair to them. I took a look at one of those menus and was shocked at how much more expensive it was. When I took some friends from Japan to a restaurant, they automatically gave them the more expensive Japanese menu. I told the waiter to bring them the regular menu instead. We still have what's called a Kama'aina rate for local residents at some businesses like golf courses for example. As a resident we pay about 50% less for a round of golf. The regular rate applies to all non-residents. Personally, if I had to pay a little more as a tourist in Japan I'd be okay with it because the service is top notch anywhere you go. Hope it all works out for Japan.

[@enjoystraveling]

I’m from America, but it just wasn’t done in our family to take more food than we could eat from a buffet and waste it. I noticed in one Chinese restaurant I went to a few years ago overseas in Europe they made a rule. You could only take as much food as you could eat but if you wasted any of it and the food on the plate, then you would pay more. I would be for that rule because if you just take a regular amount of food, but you still have to pay more than you’re funding all the other people that are wasting food.

[@月塩-c3k]

Just wanted to ask, does this two tier pricing cover things like eating in convenient stores, buying stuff in shops etc? Or just places like monuments, zoos, etc?

[@Charles-y7h9f]

In Hawaii we have "Kama'aina" rate for parks, and other tourist attractions. Some restaurants, not all, offer Kama'aina discounts where locals just show their resident ID (license or state ID) and they either get a discount or get into an attraction for free. Somewhat a two tier pricing

[@whimsy-chan1188]

I come from a tourist town myself and most attractions have a local discount. If it's 2 tier pricing for goods (like food) you've gone too far but a museum/zoo/activity it's kind of an incentive to go more than once - and a local will usually pick times when it's less crowded too

[@rl1111rl]

A higher fee for foreigners makes sense. But if you are a citizen or resident (visa), I don’t think that’s good.

[@harveyh3696]

Consider it a resort fee where it's charged. Good thing is that it is not universal. I'm sure you will not be paying more for a Big-Mac over a regular Japanese citizen at the local McD.

[@ktkace]

McD : takes down notes... PS. big corpos , unless proven, are scummier than you think

[@madtitan-va]

When I was in Japan in November, I visited Tsukiji strictly for the atmosphere .

[@henrychew235]

I hope they take into account of sustainable aspect when doing this. The dollar may be strong now but it may not be perpetually. To add, 4000 yen is definitely too high. 1500 or 2000 is probably more palpable.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Exactly, if the tide changes, they have to change too but a reputation sticks.

[@gotakazawa408]

As a Japanese person, this is my personal opinion, but 1500 or 2000 is probably more palpable. On the other hand, most Japanese people would pay those prices and go to a restaurant that is satisfying. So, Japanese people who go to tsukiji are clearly in the minority now.

[@boringNerd]

I have never visited any popular tourist spot in my country for a while, but just recently I visited one with my parents and as local residences, we got cheaper tickets. If I agree with what my own country is doing, I see no reason why I should criticize what Japan is trying to do. The key is not to overcharge tourists, and not to provide dual services. If I am being charged slightly higher than the locals, but provided with the same level of service, I am perfectly fine with this. It is going to be hard to strike a balance but I believe this is something best left to the market to decide. As a tourist if you do not like the price you are paying for a tourist spot or restaurants, then you have the right to choose some place else.

[@zacharymcdonough2864]

The compromise could be this. Higher prices for designated historical sites. To preserve them is important for the locals and tourists alike. NO to higher prices for anything else.

[@MichaelBTraveller]

All through Cambodia there is two tier pricing for museums and cultural sights. In some instances native Cambodians have free entry. I had no problem at all with it.

[@ilovejesus1014]

As an American honestly I don’t mind a higher price because of japans situation, but only if the prices are reasonable. For example base price being 5$ for locals and 7-7.50$ for a foreigner. That I’m okay with, but base 5$ and charging anything higher than 8$ for the foreigner is not something I would appreciate.

[@goatqi]

I'm perfectly fine with businesses raising prices a little and giving residents a discount. I'm perfectly fine with paying a little extra while riding the transit vs the locals. There are ways Japan could do this without gouging tourists or hurting its own citizens.

[@vktravellog1242]

My mom is a japanese citizen and I am a US citizen so if we visit japan are we going to be charged with tourist pricing? My mom lives in the US so is she considered a tourist? How does this work? I am full blooded japanese but since I am an american citizen I assume I am considered a foreigner and not japanese?

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Well said, how DOES it work? My wife’s Japanese, I’m not. How about my son who’s half? Does he pay the price in between? I can’t wait to hear more about this plan in action.

[@1004bs]

Exactly. We’re a mixed Japanese family. Would some of us pay local rates and some foreigner rates? Nuts a G7 nation would even consider two tier pricing ethical.

[@AllySandrana]

I can understand for Himeji Castle, but for restaurant? nah Not all tourist that come to Japan from America that have strong Dollar Currency. There's asian tourist too that their currency is also as weak as Yen.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

I should have said tourist trap restaurants where there are a lot of tourists. This is not an all-Japan or Japan backed thing 😉 but it’s being discussed.

[@林遼太朗-w2e]

I think Japanese people misunderstand Asian tourists are wealthy Chinese. They should realize this is wrong.

[@ManA-Level]

Just wanted to say love your glasses

[@John_Doe____]

The mayor is a medical doctor, not an eccentric guy as I remember. Obviously some people learned from what happened after the virus mess in Kyoto and Akihabara where business used to depend on foreign tourists too much. And about Tukiji, those are simply rip-off stores and nothing more. Behave and be wise tourists.

[@jeffreyw1640]

We booked our trip to Japan late last year. Had I known there would be so much negative pushback on tourists, we would’ve gone elsewhere.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

I wouldn’t say it’s negative, it’s just tourist areas being touristy. The weak yen is great for visitors but the costs are destroying a lot of businesses since so much comes from outside Japan. Prices are going up everywhere but wages have been stagnant. They’re trying to find solutions. Also, a small % of tourists have added a great amount of stress on everyone that will change a system that makes Japan so lovable and authentic. Touristy spots to accommodate international tourists will never be an authentic experience and this transition has been rough for a lot of local residents. Leadership wasn’t / isn’t ready to deal with the problems of visitors from abroad because they have Japanese solutions that don’t always work for people who have no shame. But if Japan uses western solutions, I see some changes that lead to a point of no return 😢

[@gotakazawa408]

I think it depends on the people and the place. The fact that over 60% of foreign tourists return to Japan indicates that Japanese people are generally kind. However, the rapid increase in tourists has outpaced the government's response, and residents' sentiments have not yet caught up.

[@TheInconspicuousMan]

​@@onlyinjapanGO That's a really good comment, John. Sums this whole thing up. Thanks for engaging on what is quite a difficult topic.

[@mysoulinletters6572]

This is caused by overtourism in touristy places. If u are going to Japan, go to the less touristy one. You'll never encounter any of these. Only those who insist on going to Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

[@alexb.1320]

@@onlyinjapanGO If the costs are destroying a buisness thats not on tourists. Selling something below cost to a local or to a tourist is still losing money. Trying to make up the difference on the tourist alone rather than raising prices to an appropriate level to cover per individual sale is the problem.

[@michaelgamas2399]

There will also be issues with regards to foreigners living in Japan or even Japanese citizens with foreign blood and noticeable non-Japanese look.

[@piotr277]

Not everyone visiting Japan is coming from USA and making 3000$+ per month, some people need to save for a long time only to afford the airplane tickets, especially now when they cost twice as much.

[@TheCeleron450]

With Tsukiji markets I wonder how high the rent is for those vendors? It may not all be the vendors doing for high prices and they may be trying to give the locals a discount and hoping the tourists will frequent their business more to cover the losses on the local discount. There definitely needs to be higher prices for historical sites to help with maintenance.

[@stuff8575]

Hi John. I have no problem contributing to the upkeep of heritage sites. However I will not be paying ridiculous prices for skewers of Wagyu when I can get it cheaper where the locals go.

[@enjoystraveling]

Is Kawasaki a tourist place or can I find reasonable price food there?

[@WizardOfOss]

Inflated prices at a tourist traps, sure, you see that everywhere in the world. But it's still the same price for every customer, so no problem with that. But different prices for Nihon-jin and Baka Gaijin? Well, that's a clear way to say "Not welcome!" And the exchange rate as an excuse? Well, I wonder if the yen ever recovers, will they give foreigners a discount? Doesn't sound very likely....Looking back at my first two visits to Japan just months apart back in 2008, the rate went from around €0,65 for 100 yen to it being close to a euro. So basically making everything about 50% more expensive. Too bad, just have to deal with it. Also, apparently at Himeji only 30% of all visitors are foreigners, so 70% are still Japanese. So if it's to fight overtourism, wouldn;t it make more sense to make it more expensive for everyone, with maybe a discount for Himeji residents. And at those buffets? I've been to a few and was generally the only or at best one of very few foreigners around. And I'm nat that big of an eater anyway. Last time in Kobe I went to a seafood buffet with unlimited crab, and I ate my fair share of crab legs. The Japanese family on the table next to me, well, let's just say they really turned it into a proper crab party. Because why only get a few if you can stack a ton of them on your plate? Sometimes I just don't get Japan. Pre-covid, they spent a shitload of money to promote tourism, and very successfully so. Did we ever hear complaints about overtourism? During the pandemic: Panic! Without tourist money, places are going bankrupt! And now that everything is back to normal, they seem to be doing everything just to piss off tourists. And the thing is, based on my own experiences, overtourism is still a very local thing. During my most recent rrip in April, I visited Wakayama, Shikoku, Shodoshima, Okayama, Himeji (but not the the castle....seen that before) and Kobe, and I'd think at most of those places they would actually very much welcome some more tourists, overtourism is something they can only dream of. Matsue is one of only three prefectures I haven't been (had to cancel my 2020 trip...), and apparently at many places there you actually get a dslight iscount if you show your foreign passport. Japan should do much more to promote other places than just Tokyo and Kyoto. For starters, maybe make the JRP good again, just so people can travel remote areas more easily?

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Right, pick a side - two tier is too hard. It’s just an in between time where locals still go, less and less. But they’re regulars and making a business without that is very hard to succeed. Sanin Area is wonderful, just get away from tourist spots and see authentic Japan. You do not have to worry about pricing for tourists then.

[@donald.R]

In Thailand, they charge foreigners more to enter tourist spots like the Royal Palace or national parks. I don’t mind this at all because it’s still just a few dollars. I wouldn’t have minded if I was charged more to go up Tokyo Tower or the Skytree as long as it was reasonable. Charging more for food in certain tourist spots is fine too. That’s kind of the point of tourist traps. 😂 The market will work itself out. If they raise the prices too much and nobody buys, then they’re probably going to go out of business and I won’t feel sorry for them. Now, if tourist flock to that spot and keep buying the food, then good for them.

[@Radium3D]

What is the root cause of the yen’s downtrend? Are Japanese companies not competing or doing business outside of Japan as much as previously? I’ve noticed Japan slipping in the automotive industry, especially with the popularity of EV now outside of Japan

[@1004bs]

Toyota is making a killing. Japan is a rich country. They need to start paying their workers more money, a competitive wage equal to others in the G7 instead of blaming outsiders. They need better leaders.

[@Pemma200]

Japan has to do it, it is responding to supply and demand. The two tier system is fair, it’s a discount the shop owners offer to the locals. The shop owners are not obliged to give discounts to tourists.

[@jimroundsound]

I don't think Japan should implement a nation wide two tiered pricing system. On my first visit to Japan 10 years ago the exchange rate was about 85 yen to the dollar, and it stayed close to that for a long time. It will shift back in their favor eventually.

[@lauriey6089]

US economy is bad too. Why would I get ripped off like this?

[@gotakazawa408]

In 2021, the relative poverty rate in Japan was 15.4%. According to the OECD, the rate in the U.S. was 15.1% in 2021, and in the U.K., it was 11.2% in 2020. This means that, in reality, only the government and a select few in Japan are wealthy. The total amount of taxes and social insurance premiums paid by the average working individual is nearly 50%, which is at its limit. This clearly indicates a policy failure, and it can be said that the nation is sustained by the remarkable patience of its citizens.

[@craciunlabs]

Would you pay the foreigner extra cost and your wife and child the local price being at the same table?

[@onlyinjapanGO]

There are so many issues with two-tier pricing. I think it is complicated, as I said, Japanese tend to put people in two boxes. Foreign or Japanese. It’s not that simple. If they do this, it’s going to be interesting hearing the feedback!

[@craciunlabs]

​@@onlyinjapanGO Thank you for your reply and making the video. Watching your work since years has given me a perspective over japanese mindset, not all of course, so these kind of situations don't anger me anymore. There's traditions and different ways out there and i stay curious. I can also understand the perspective of Japan.. i never visited i guess i have to pay a premium now when i do fly there in July. Best to all.

[@gotakazawa408]

@@onlyinjapanGO John, I think treating Tsukiji, Himeji Castle, and buffets in the same context has understandably caused confusion for many people this time. They share the superficial aspect of dual pricing, but each has different underlying reasons.

[@vktravellog1242]

I understand why they are doing this to help control the tourism boom and to make extra revenue because Japan is hurting economic wise. The downside is if Japan pushes tourism away are they willing to live with the consequences? Its a tough situation indeed but at the same time you need to be careful in not biting the hand that feeds you.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Japan is not doing this. Tourist traps are, and they are hurting family-run restaurants on the verge of closing trapped between inflation and poor wage growth domestically.

[@1004bs]

A price increase at certain sights like Himeji castle is reasonable. But two tier pricing implies Japan is a poor country. Won’t that be a big blow to the Japanese people who have traditionally been very proud of being the wealthiest nation in Asia? I think there’s a morale cost to this policy.

[@gotakazawa408]

As a Japanese person, personally, I find this issue quite challenging. In fact, contrary to how it may appear from abroad, the lives of Japanese people living in Japan are not generally affluent, except for some. While it's true that tourists are being targeted, many Japanese are also targeted by a government inclined towards tax hikes. A lot of Japanese are fed up with the policies of the current administration.

[@Ruperth316]

dual pricing is just xenophobe AF, you don't see other countries charging more on Japanese tourist

[@onlyinjapanGO]

They’re not picking a nationality. It’s all inbound tourists AT TOURIST TRAP locations. I hate this system, just don’t go. They have to be transparent. There are too many restaurants, 99.9% won’t be in this system. Just lazy people that can’t walk away from the traps.

[@LiterallyJustAnActualPotato]

I’m currently in Tokyo, and I noticed several clothing shops approached this in a pretty classy way. If you could show that you have a Japanese address, you got up to a 30% discount. I think while the economy is so hard for Japanese residents at the moment, it is nice to see shops offering some relief to people who are local and earn yen. It feels less like a penalty for me as a visitor, and more like a relief for locals during this difficult time. I also like that it just requires a proof of Japanese address, so it would apply to anyone with an address here. I think this is better because it includes people who are more committed to Japan than a one time tourist, even if they don’t have a permanent residency. If the roles were reversed and the usd (my currency) was weak, I can’t imagine feeling okay with shops charging visitors more money for the same thing just because their currency is stronger. It feels sketchy/wrong, like all of those shops that rip people off in tourist areas in various countries. Obviously it happens, but I don’t think most people think it’s a good/ethical thing to do. Everyone sees those people as kind of slimy/shady/low morals/greedy. Like the people who charge tourists triple or more the price of something for no reason other than they can get away with it. Japan asked for tourists, and then wants to up-charge them for visiting? That feels not great… my husband and I just started working with a realtor to buy a house in Tokyo and plan on spending half the year there. We would visit all over Japan, and spend a lot of money at local places in Tokyo and the whole of Japan. It will feel very frustrating/sad to encounter people who want to take advantage of us simply because we are foreigners. Im confident there will be plenty of shop owners with more integrity than that, though. Hopefully Japan is able to make decisions that improve the economy and strengthen the yen, since I certainly don’t want for anyone to be doing through at tough time. If I see two tier pricing, I will not buy anything. I imagine most people feel the same. It seems like it could backfire, unless they were being intentionally unclear/dishonest so that most foreigners were not able to tell they were being charged more/ripped off. I hope they wouldn’t stoop that low. I can, however, understand a lower price for Japanese residents at places that are more tourist-y or at cultural places, to encourage them to visit tourist attractions and because every citizen of any country should have easy access to their own cultural sites. It is theirs. One of my main concerns is that if dual pricing becomes common, will it go away when/if the yen becomes strong again? Or it will it be the norm for the next lifetime?

[@kanzaki0001]

Turn about is fair play, other countries will do the same w/ Japanese tourists. But when this backfires and the people catch on, they won’t go.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

As long as it’s still *affordable* it won’t have an impact on tourists but TOURIST AREAS like Tsukiji are already places Japanese avoid. It’s 99% international visitors.

[@inquisitvem6723]

I payed 7000 yen for sashimi at tsujiki market for the experience there, but I won’t eat there again, I might not even return there again. It was just an experience. I do think restaurants in Japan might need to increase prices due to the yen when I was there several weeks ago. It’s a good idea to have two price menus. Do we want restaurants to go out of business?

[@onlyinjapanGO]

At Sushi Zanmai? That’s hard to believe unless that’s for the whole family. Tourist spots should raise prices esp when 99% of visitors to an area are tourists like Tsukiji these days. It’s fun but not authentic anymore.

[@Traveljet14]

I remember those ryokans that were catering to lots of asian tourists pre-Covid, closed down when the visitors stopped flying in. The locals stopped staying in those ryokans because the emphasis was on overseas visitors and you know how noisy the accommodations would be. It’s a pity this has to take place. If Japan feels the price charged is too cheap eg Himeji, ok raise it but not because they want to milk the tourists to help prop up their economy. If they overdo it, it may backfire. Many of us are also facing rising prices eg Singapore, it’s not just Japanese businesses.

[@jayho4593]

I think how they present the pricing structure matters on how tourists accept being charged more. I am all for charging tourists more at cultural sites which allows local Japanese citizens to visit them cheaper or even free. The prices listed should be what EVERYONE pays, BUT…if you are local, you get a discount. What turns me off is when you visit a restaurant, they post all these cheap prices on boards and menus that you look at before entering the restaurant, once you sit down, they charge you more because you are a tourist. I am fine paying the prices posted, even if it is inflated “tourist” prices as long as i know before i sit down or order. At least it gives me the choice whether to eat there or not. I live in Hawaii and lots of businesses offer discounted rates for locals but the way they give this discount, it doesn’t alienate visitors just because they are tourists.

[@JayBChannel-q3x]

It is just wording but exactly the same thing. If the consumer is not wise enough to pick up on that is their issue.

[@Japan_Changed_My_Life]

Planning to move back in the fall of 2025 (left in 2011 after the 3/11 quake). Not sure what the world will be like by then but hoping for the best. At least I won't have to work at an eikaiwa this time because I've been working remotely for the past 4 years and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

[@laladieladada]

I don't understand why the value of the yen matters to how many tourists are there and why tourists should pay more.. You would base your price on what your costs are plus a profit margin, right? As long the costumer, tourist or not, pays the price you ask, you should be able to make a profit right? What does it matter that some currency abroad is worth more? It's not like they are paying you less right?

[@1004bs]

What time did you visit tsukiji? That’s not crowded at all compared to when we last visited. Is that due to the price increase, you think? Guess it’s having the desired effect.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Not at 1pm. Most shops closing up. Go at 10am and … 😳 and the prices going up makes it a tourist trap, maybe people wising up.

[@fiverareblanks]

I dont think thats a fair system. Im in Washington DC and all the Smithsonian museums and the zoo are free to anyone from anywhere. I wouldn’t want someone who is not from here to have to pay just because they are not from here and only locals get it for free or cheaper. The cost of operation does not change per headcount just because someone is from somewhere else.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

US is in major debt 💸 I’m not sure tax payers will keep it free forever. I think sales of goods helps a lot. Love the Smithsonian and hope it stays free and benefactors chip in instead. Himeji 🏯 is like any castle in Europe that’s a tourist attraction.

[@momentsbyshubha]

Ur videos always make me want to visit Japan again, John! Hopefully next year I’ll visit :) 😊

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Definitely, but plan to spend time Off the beaten path and enjoy it more! I’ll make more episodes in that.

[@momentsbyshubha]

@@onlyinjapanGO will look forward to ur awesome tips! We enjoyed ur videos and used ur tips during our last trip! Will do the same again! Thanku so much.

[@tthrl]

In the case of restaurants, who gets the increased revenue? Would the workers get paid more, or does the owner pocket it? Price gouging is not very 'Omotenashi'.

[@gotakazawa408]

Except in cases like Tsukiji, for restaurants, a portion of the increased profits goes to the owners and employees. Unfortunately, much of it is collected by the government as taxes.

[@DanLee8884]

This is unfortunate. I appreciated that in Japan, you can purchase food and items comfortably even in touristy area as I knew I was not getting ripped off. In the US, you are charge ridiculous prices at touristy places. They should frame this as special pricing for residents not the this way. It makes residents happy and tourist dont feel like they are taken advantage of. Everyone would understand a residential discount. We avoid touristy places already but this will keep us away even more.

[@itsmelambu8013]

John love your content. This is a whole different topic. We have been seeing on the news here in USA the rise of deadly flesh eating bacteria in Japan. Can you please cover this and if it’s safe to travel to Japan. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Media will latch onto ANY story that will scare people. It’s not a major concern at the moment. Wash your hands and take care of any open wounds. What we normally do. I’ll discuss this soon but we don’t know enough yet.

[@KariHaruka]

Few reasons why I would be against charging foreign tourists more than residents when eating at a restaurant. Firstly, not every foreign tourist is benefitting from the weak Yen and strong $. So these tourists (who might've been saving for years) will end up being hit harder than American tourists and the residents... And, as we know, the Yen will eventually strengthen against the $ again. Will prices for tourists be changed to reflect that? My answer would be nope. Secondly, for foreign residents that are living in Japan and would want to eat out. Having to show proof that you're a resident every time that you are wanting to grab a bowl of Yoshinoya, etc, will get tiring very quickly (and make you feel even less like a resident of Japan). I agree that popular attractions (such as castles, museums, etc) could have a different price system in place for local residents of that city/prefecture and then a higher price for every other visitor (regardless of being Japanese/foreign resident/tourist), as this is a practice seen in other countries. Though there needs to be common sense in the price difference. Because, the $5 entrance fee for residents and the $30 entrance fee for foreign tourists to Himeji Castle, as suggest by the major is just absurd.

[@bilbobaggins7285]

Discriminating based on nationality isn't moral. For that reason it's not legal in most of the developed world. Japan would be in the company of non-democratic and developing nations if they charge people more based on their nationality.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

They don’t care what country you’re from. It’s all tourists in tourist trap spots. Every country does this, jack up prices but the two-tier system is doomed to fail.

[@jackiedaytona7201]

I will straight out be recommending my clients visit other castles (Matsumoto, Matsue, etc) if Himeji introduces two tier pricing. There are better ways to raise revenue than charge more based on the color of someone's skin

[@Anonymous551656]

Himeji are not charging differently based on the colour of skin, they're planning to raise the general admission price but provide discounted prices for local residents. This is perfectly reasonable. People of foreign appearance who live locally would still get the local rate when showing a proof of residence. This kind of thing happens all over the world. If you want to recommend your clients visit other castles then do so by all means. Overtourism means that there's a pressing need to distribute tourists to less well known sites. But it should be based on value for money versus the experience they will receive, not based on whether locals have discounted entry or not. Himeji's plan is not like going to a restaurant and getting passed a menu with prices doubled just because they see that you're non-Asian.

[@ianmarkham149]

I'm fine with tourist areas charging more. Come to the UK where everyone gets fleeced! If you want to visit Windsor Castle, that will cost you £33/$43/Y6100 if you get a ticket on the day! Stonehenge? £30. Buckingham Palace? £35. Next Saturday a ticket to go up the Shard in London is £32.50. Skytree, booked in advance is half that.

[@1004bs]

Comments saying two tier pricing exists in Thailand, Cambodia, etc - Japan is one of the wealthiest nations in the world, is it not? Yet it can’t budget to maintain their top sights? We were in Korea recently and all of the museums and nationals sights were free or extremely cheap to enter, subsidized by government budgets. I just don’t understand how the government of Japan can’t do the same? If anything, Japan should have a much larger budget.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Weak yen, declining population, stagnant wages, inflation after decades of deflation … a closed country for 2 years which was absolutely backwards … there’s no excuse but it is a perfect storm for small business everywhere in Japan. 95% of tourist go to the same places and locals don’t want to go there anymore. I think they should just raise the prices and never mind the locals, but tourists don’t repeat, become regulars. I’m sure they’re listening to every idea! Most of the country doesn’t even have the option to charge tourists more. It’ll be quite a year of change.

[@vitovitale169]

I am Italian eating at a restaurant in Italy that caters to English speaking people is an invitation to be scammed. Not only will their advertised prices be high but then they will add additional items/fees to the bill you didn't even order!

[@magnustan841]

Understandable, but morally stingy. The only save and grace is that Japan's food items and tourism infrastructure is very well-maintained, clean and high-quality that it warrants a higher price. Maybe businesses should consider something like this. Let's say a nice restaurant prices a meal at 1000 yen for everyone, so a local and tourists pay 2000 yen total. How about reducing the local charge to 800 yen and the foreign tourists 1300 yen. Yeah, your profit in theory increases by a net 100 yen, but that's not so much a sting for the foreigners and a lower price for locals might be more attractive and you might be able to create regular customers.

[@aibao_eipariru_april]

They’re using foreign tourist places, zoos, and museums as a reference, the difference is those are a ridiculously high priced for everyone (like $30-50+ to go to a zoo or museum in the US) What they apparently don’t know is that nobody in a normal income level goes to those places at all except for on “free days” or with coupons or just not all. And they’re going to figure out that having to ask for people’s passports all day is going to cause a lot more headaches than just having one price. Chances are they won’t even ask the Asian tourists in the first place which is like 80% of the people they’re complaining about. It just seems like whomever is in charge of these ideas has no experience with foreign people or tourism. On the other hand, Okinawa already has dual pricing for locals vs everyone else on the smaller islands and tourist spots. The locals show their ID, not the tourists. Sort of like tribal tax exemption in the US.

[@onlyinjapanGO]

I didn’t know much about Okinawa until I went. Locals aren’t rich like Tokyo - I can see why a 2 tier system is necessary and I don’t mind.