Kyoto’s New Hotel Tax 2026: What Muslim Travellers Should Know

Planning a trip to Kyoto in 2026? Get ready to factor in a new hotel tax that could cost you up to S$86 per night — per person.

But don’t worry — we’ll break it down for you and show you how to still travel smart (and halal) without blowing your budget.

From 1 March 2026, Kyoto will raise its accommodation tax. It’s part of the city’s plan to tackle overtourism and protect its beautiful streets, shrines, and buses from overcrowding.

The amount you pay depends on how much your hotel costs:

• Budget stays (under ¥6,000/night): no change — still ¥200
• Mid-range stays (e.g. ¥12,000–¥30,000/night): tax doubles or more
• High-end hotels (above ¥100,000/night): tax jumps to ¥10,000 (S$86) per night

And yes, it’s charged per guest, not per room.

If you're staying at a budget hostel, the difference is almost nothing.

But let’s say you’re booking a mid-range hotel (around ¥28,000/night) for 3 nights as a couple — you could be paying ¥6,000 extra just in tax (about S$52).

Not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to factor in if you're trying to travel affordably.

Want to enjoy Kyoto without the tax hike ruining your plans? Try these:

• Stay in Osaka or Uji, and day-trip into Kyoto
• Shorten your stay in Kyoto and explore nearby towns
• Pick guesthouses or hostels — most are under the tax threshold
• Use platforms like Agoda or Rakuten Travel that show final prices with tax
• Travel during shoulder seasons (like February or June) for cheaper stays

Kyoto may be pricey, but it’s still Muslim-friendly — if you know where to look.

Where to Eat:

• Ayam-Ya Karasuma – halal ramen
• Narita-ya – Muslim-owned Japanese meals
• Ganko Sushi – halal set meals near Kyoto Station

Where to Stay:

• Sakura Terrace – near Kyoto Station, vegetarian options, prayer mats
• Kyoto Guesthouse Lantern – affordable and central
• Machiya homes – great for privacy and self-catering

Prayer rooms are limited, but available at Kyoto Mosque and Kansai Airport. Halal Navi and Muslim Pro apps can help on the go.

Kyoto’s hotel tax is rising, but it doesn’t mean you have to skip this amazing city. With a little planning, you can keep your trip affordable, halal-friendly, and stress-free.

Want help finding the best value stays or halal food spots in Kyoto? We’ve got your back.