Japan’s renowned Onsen (hot spring) industry is confronting significant challenges as increased tourism strains water resources.

Government reports and official statistics indicate that the surge in both domestic and international tourists has led to water shortages in several hot spring regions, prompting local authorities to implement measures to ensure the sustainability of these cultural and natural assets.​

Tourism Surge and Its Implications

In recent years, Japan has experienced a notable increase in tourism.

According to the Japan Tourism Agency, the total number of guest nights by both Japanese and international travelers in 2023 nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, with a slight decrease of 0.5% compared to 2019 figures.

Specifically, there were approximately 478.42 million guest nights by Japanese travelers (a 0.4% decrease from 2019) and 114.34 million guest nights by international tourists (a 1.1% decrease from 2019). The room occupancy rate for 2023 was 57.4%, indicating a recovery trend in the tourism sector. ​

This resurgence in tourism has had a direct impact on onsen destinations. The increased demand for hot spring experiences has led to higher water consumption, resulting in water shortages in certain areas.

Local governments have reported that the influx of tourists has strained the capacity of hot spring sources, leading to concerns about the long-term sustainability of these natural resources.​

Local Government Responses

In response to these challenges, local authorities have implemented various measures to mitigate the impact of overtourism on onsen resources:​

  • Water Usage Regulations: Some municipalities have introduced guidelines to limit the daily extraction of hot spring water. These regulations aim to balance tourist demand with the sustainable use of water resources, ensuring that hot springs can continue to operate without depleting their sources.​
  • Infrastructure Improvements: Investments in infrastructure, such as the development of additional water sources and the enhancement of existing facilities, have been prioritized to accommodate the growing number of visitors while preserving the quality and availability of hot spring water.​
  • Promotion of Off-Peak Tourism: To alleviate pressure during peak seasons, local governments are encouraging tourism during off-peak periods. This strategy aims to distribute tourist numbers more evenly throughout the year, reducing the strain on hot spring resources during traditionally busy times.​

National Policy Considerations

At the national level, authorities are exploring comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by overtourism to the onsen industry:​

  • Sustainable Tourism Initiatives: The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has been promoting sustainable tourism practices. Efforts include encouraging tourists to visit lesser-known destinations and implementing policies that support the preservation of natural resources in popular tourist areas.
  • Economic Support for Affected Regions: Financial assistance and subsidies are being considered to support regions affected by water shortages. These funds aim to help local businesses adapt to new regulations and invest in sustainable practices that ensure the longevity of hot spring resources.​

Future Outlook

The onsen industry is integral to Japan’s cultural heritage and tourism economy. Addressing the challenges of overtourism requires a collaborative effort between local governments, national authorities, and industry stakeholders.

By implementing sustainable practices, investing in infrastructure, and promoting responsible tourism, Japan aims to preserve its hot spring traditions for future generations while accommodating the growing interest from tourists worldwide.​

The post Over tourism Challenges Japan’s Onsen Sustainability: Government Initiatives and Future Strategies appeared first on Travel And Tour World.