Kyoto, a victim of its own tourist success

Peru Travel Mart 2025: New routes to connect tourism with the world

10-04-25

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital and one of the country's most iconic destinations, is experiencing an increasingly evident paradox: as international visitor numbers soar, domestic tourists are beginning to avoid the city. The phenomenon, which has intensified following the country's full reopening to tourism, is fuelling a growing debate in Japan about the effects of so-called ‘overtourism’.

Since its post-pandemic reopening, Japan has experienced a remarkable resurgence in international tourism. In 2023, the country welcomed more than 25 million foreign visitors, and that figure is expected to continue to grow. Kyoto, with its ancient temples, historic streets and traditional culture, remains one of the main attractions for visitors from abroad. However, this popularity comes at a cost: the increasing saturation of urban space and the loss of quality in the tourist experience are deterring many Japanese from visiting the city.

Local authorities and Kyoto residents have begun to speak out against the pressure of mass tourism on their daily lives. The most visited streets, such as the Gion district - famous for its geisha - suffer from constant congestion. There have been reports of disrespectful behaviour by some visitors, which has led to specific restrictions, such as a ban on photographing geisha in certain areas, to protect both the practitioners and the image of the place.

The mayor of Kyoto, Daisaku Kadokawa, has acknowledged the challenge facing the city. In several statements he has pointed to the need to find a balance between welcoming foreign visitors and preserving the quality of life of local citizens, as well as the authentic experience that is so attractive to tourists. New strategies have also been put forward, such as promoting tourism in lesser-known areas of the city or encouraging off-season visits.

However, for many Japanese, Kyoto has become an uncomfortable destination. A recent survey by the Japan Tourism Agency shows that more and more citizens prefer to travel to other regions where they can enjoy a quieter, less crowded experience. The general perception is that Kyoto no longer offers the spiritual calm and contemplative beauty that used to characterise its temples and gardens.

In this context, tourism sustainability has become an urgent priority. It is not just a matter of managing visitor flows, but of preserving the city's identity. Urban planning and tourism experts have warned that Kyoto could lose some of its charm if stronger tourism regulation policies are not implemented. Proposals include limiting daily visitor entry to certain cultural sites or introducing specific fees for international tourists to contribute to the maintenance of infrastructure and heritage.

Despite the difficulties, Kyoto remains a powerful symbol of the Japanese soul and retains its global appeal. But the challenge of reconciling its international fame with the needs of its residents and the desire of the Japanese to reconnect with their cultural heritage is more present than ever. Decisions made in the coming years could set a precedent for other cities around the world facing similar situations.

In the meantime, the message is clear: if Kyoto is to remain a beacon of beauty, history and spirituality, it will have to reinvent its tourism model, placing quality over quantity and restoring to its streets the lost balance between visitors and local life.

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