Japan continues to develop its tourism offering as the country breaks new visitor records. From October, a new premium class on Shinkansen trains with private compartments will be launched, while a new sleeper train service is on the way. At the same time, the country's tourism tax will be significantly increased from July 1.
The new premium class, called Supreme Class, is being introduced on selected express trains between Tokyo and, among others, Kyoto and Osaka. Passengers will have access to private compartments with lockable doors, providing a private travel experience on board. The largest compartments are equipped with smaller sofas, and passengers can adjust both the lighting and air conditioning themselves.
In 2027, Japan also plans to introduce Luna Azul, a new sleeper service on the Tohoku Line connecting Tokyo with Aomori and Akita in northeastern Japan, among others. The train will offer sleeping accommodations and will provide travelers with a more comfortable option for longer domestic journeys.
The tourist tax is tripled
As the travel experience evolves, Japan is raising its so-called ”sayonara tax.” Effective July 1, the fee will increase from 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen per international traveler.
The tax is automatically added to the airfare and is not paid upon arrival or departure. According to the Japanese government, the revenue is used to fund tourism-related infrastructure and improve the visitor experience.
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Source: CNN Travel
