By / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department Compiled Report
Taiwanese people love traveling to Japan, but whether visiting for scenic beauty or shopping, everyone should be aware that Japan has implemented three major tax policy adjustments successively in 2016 and 2017. Due to global market volatility, the yen has appreciated back to around 0.28–0.29, and it’s unlikely to depreciate again in the short term. Therefore, travelers planning a trip to Japan should exchange their yen as early as possible.
Yen Won’t Return to Previous Levels – Three Key Things to Know About New Travel Regulations in Japan (Image Source / wanderlust.tripovo)
● Increase in Osaka Accommodation Tax
Osaka, a popular destination among Taiwanese travelers, has become the second city after Tokyo to implement an accommodation tax. Starting from January 2017, taxes will be levied based on hotel price tiers, ranging from 100 yen to 300 yen. For future stays, guests paying between 10,000 yen and 15,000 yen per night will incur a 100-yen accommodation tax; those paying between 15,000 yen and 20,000 yen will pay 200 yen; and stays over 20,000 yen will be subject to a 300-yen tax.
● Increase in Japan’s Consumption Tax
Starting from April 2017, Japan’s consumption tax will rise from the previous 8% to 10%, affecting expenses such as dining and accommodation.
● Relaxed Tax-Free System: Get Refunds for Purchases Over 5,000 Yen
Since May 2016, the Japanese government has lowered the tax refund threshold for foreign visitors’ purchases in Japan from the previous 10,000 yen per day per store to 5,000 yen. In addition, the range of tax-free eligible products has been expanded beyond high-end goods, now also applying to small purchases such as electronics, clothing, and snacks.