The Popular Japanese Town That's Taking A Major Step To Limit Tourists

Japan has long been a favorite destination for travelers worldwide. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its culinary delights and technological marvels, Japan offers a wealth of experiences with many unmissable destinations. Among its many attractions, Japan's onsens, or natural hot springs, hold a special allure. Thought to provide therapeutic and beauty effects from the enriched waters drawn from over 27,000 hot spring sources. Onsen experiences range from indoor or outdoor baths to private and mixed-gender facilities. Some even include unique options like carbonated or radium-iron-enriched baths. These hot springs provide comfort for weary travelers, stimulate local economies, and are often surrounded by picturesque ryokan (traditional inns) and quaint towns.

One such town holds the recognized Ginzan Onsen, which is nestled in the Yamagata Prefecture, in the Tohoku region, about 260 miles north of Tokyo. Steeped in history, with traditional wooden architecture and vintage street lamps, it's no surprise Ginzan Onsen draws nearly 330,000 visitors a year with its fantasy-like charm. Its idyllic scenery has been speculated to inspire Studio Ghibli's beloved anime film "Spirited Away". However, this popularity has led to challenges, particularly during the peak winter season. The influx of tourists has disrupted the town's tranquility, often defeating the main purpose of visiting a place like Ginzan Onsen –– to relax, soak in healing waters, and leave the stress of daily life behind. To address these issues, Ginzan Onsen has implemented significant new restrictions aimed at preserving its serene charm and ensuring a better experience for both visitors and locals.

Starting January 7, 2025, the onsen introduced new rules to combat overtourism and its associated problems. Specifically, day-trippers — a major contributor to congestion– will face stricter entry regulations during peak evening hours. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., only 100 visitors will be permitted into the town, and they must book tickets in advance. Visitors without reservations at local hotels will be banned entirely after 8 p.m. Additionally, personal vehicles are no longer allowed within the town; Instead, visitors must park at designated centers, such as the Taisho Romankan Tourism Center about 1.3 miles away, and take the shuttle buses into the area. If you plan on traveling to this beloved onsen during winter, you must book tickets online ahead of time through their website.

These measures aim to reduce the havoc caused by overcrowding. In recent years, tourists have flocked to this picture-perfect town for its iconic photo opportunities, creating bottlenecks in narrow streets and disputes over prime spots. The disruption extends beyond photo-taking as well. Snow-covered roads have often led to traffic snarls, blocking emergency vehicles and inconveniencing residents. By limiting visitor numbers and controlling vehicle access, the town hopes to restore its once-tranquil ambiance while still welcoming those who appreciate its unique charm.

Ginzan Onsen's struggles reflect a broader issue of overtourism across Japan. Since the country re-opened its borders after the pandemic, it has seen a dramatic surge in visitor numbers. In 2024, a staggering 36.9 million visitors went to Japan, surpassing its pre-pandemic record of 31.9 million in 2019. Popular destinations like Kyoto's Gion district and Mount Fuji have faced similar challenges with overcrowding, environmental degradation, and cultural misunderstandings between frustrated locals and tourists, diminishing the quality of experiences for all. For example, in Gion, tourists have been banned from certain streets due to unruly behavior, including ignoring photography restrictions.

The rapid rise in tourism can be attributed to Japan's global appeal, affordable travel options, and the pent-up demand following years of restrictions. However, this boom has strained the local infrastructure, disrupted daily life, and highlighted cultural differences. Japan's emphasis on manners, respect, and politeness often clashes with visitors' behavior, leading to tensions. Frankly, there are many things tourists should never do in Japan that they may not be aware of. Congested trains, overflowing trash on trails, and overcrowded streets and restaurants not only inconvenience residents but also harm the environment and the people living there.

As Japan grapples with these challenges, travelers can play a vital role in mitigating overtourism. By educating themselves on how to be a considerate tourist when visiting Japan, behaving respectfully, adhering to local rules, and considering less-visited destinations, tourists can ensure their journeys are both memorable and considerate. In the case of Ginzan Onsen, planning ahead, following new regulations, and appreciating its serene beauty with your phone in your pocket can help preserve this enchanting place for generations to come.