Tokyo is tightening restrictions on Airbnb-style rentals after residents voiced growing concern over the disruption caused by short-term visitors.
Known in Japan as minpaku, or private lodging, short-term home rentals have expanded rapidly. As of July, nearly 17,000 registered minpaku properties were operating across Tokyo’s wards.
Residents have complained about noise, rubbish and guests’ disregard for local neighbourhoods. Authorities are also seeking to close loopholes that allow condominium units to be operated as de facto hotel rooms.
Shinjuku Ward is proposing a ban on minpaku operations in residential areas and near schools, a move that could affect more than half of its 4,000 registered short-term rentals, according to the ward's official website.
The ward is also considering reducing the maximum operating period for remaining properties from 180 to 120 days a year. The proposals are expected to be submitted to the ward assembly in February, following a public consultation in October.
The planned restrictions would apply to existing properties, although a grace period and limited exemptions for appropriately managed, owner-occupied accommodation are under consideration. Around 2,000 rentals could be forced to close if the measures are adopted.
Elsewhere, Ota Ward is considering requirements for operators to monitor guests’ arrivals and departures using security cameras.
Kyoto, which already limits minpaku operations in residential areas to a 60-day off-peak (January to March) window, is also looking at further controls on short-term rentals.