Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward Proposes Ban on Homestays Near Homes and Schools
SingTao · 2 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward, which hosts Japan's largest number of homestays with 3,775 registered facilities, has announced plans to prohibit homestay operations in residential zones and within school zones. The proposed regulation comes in response to a sharp rise in complaints regarding noise, illegal garbage disposal, and unauthorized entry into private properties. If implemented as scheduled next summer, the new ordinance could render approximately 2,000 homestays—over half of the current total—unable to continue operations. The Shinjuku Ward Office will conduct a public consultation period before amending the homestay ordinance.
Key Points
- Shinjuku Ward has 3,775 registered homestays, the highest concentration of any municipality in Japan
- Complaints related to homestays surged to 1,334 cases in fiscal year 2025, marking an increase of 542 complaints compared to the previous year
- The proposed regulation would ban homestays in residential exclusive zones on weekdays and within school zones, including existing facilities
- Commercial district homestays would face reduced operating limits from 180 days down to 120 days per year under the new rules
- The Shinjuku Ward Office has already ordered 60 facilities to cease operations and 15 to close entirely since 2025
Why It Matters
The Shinjuku initiative could catalyze a wave of stricter homestay regulations across Tokyo and beyond, following the Japan Tourism Agency's July 2026 guidance authorizing local governments to ban homestays that threaten residential and educational environments. The potential closure of 2,000 homestays would significantly impact the budget accommodation market serving international tourists, while neighboring Toshima Ward has already announced plans to prohibit new homestays in 70% of its area starting December 2026 .
The Shinjuku initiative could catalyze a wave of stricter homestay regulations across Tokyo and beyond, following the Japan Tourism Agency's July 2026 guidance authorizing local governments to ban homestays that threaten residential and educational environments. The potential closure of 2,000 homestays would significantly impact the budget accommodation market serving international tourists, while neighboring Toshima Ward has already announced plans to prohibit new homestays in 70% of its area starting December 2026 .