The Japan Tourism Agency plans to notify local governments that they may effectively ban private lodging (minpaku) in certain areas through ordinances to protect residential areas from noise, garbage and other nuisances. The notice, expected later this month, would reverse the agency's longstanding stance that banning private lodging is inappropriate from the viewpoint of promoting the service.

Tokyo municipalities are increasing inspections and imposing restrictions on private lodging due to complaints about noise and garbage, according to the Straits Times. Wards such as Shinjuku and Toshima have tightened rules, including limiting rental days and banning lodgings near schools or dense areas, the Straits Times reported.

The Japan Tourism Agency reports over 40,000 private lodging properties by 2026, the Straits Times said. Around 40,700 properties were registered for private lodging use as of May, Mainichi reported. Owners can rent out vacant homes or rooms to tourists for up to 180 days per year under Japanese law, Mainichi noted.