Shinjuku to tighten rules on short-term rentals amid rising tourist complaints

Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's busiest districts, is moving to restrict private vacation rentals such as those listed on Airbnb. The local government intends to amend the existing minpaku ordinance, banning rentals in housing zones and areas close to schools, and reducing the maximum rental duration to 120 days per year. The change follows a noticeable increase in resident complaints about noise and other disruptive behavior.

Japan's 2018 minpaku law already caps rentals at 180 days annually, but the city argues tighter limits are needed as the yen's low value has drawn more tourists. Similar measures have been taken elsewhere, with Kyoto limiting rentals to 60 days during the January-March off-season, and Fujiyoshida cancelling its cherry-blossom festival due to tourist misconduct. Authorities hope the new rules will ease housing pressure and improve community relations.