Ginzan Onsen Limits Entry Amid Tourist Surge

Ginzan Onsen, a scenic hot spring town in Japan's Yamagata region, is implementing new visitor rules to combat overtourism and enhance safety amidst a surge in international tourists. The town, known for attracting around 330,000 visitors annually, faces traffic congestion and safety hazards. Starting December 23, entry after 8 p.m. is restricted to guests with local accommodation reservations, and day visitors between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. must book in advance and use a paid shuttle service from a designated parking area. These measures, effective until the end of February, aim to alleviate challenges posed by tourists, particularly during winter months with hazardous driving conditions. Local authorities emphasize protecting the town's unique appeal while maintaining a positive relationship with visitors. This initiative comes as Japan experiences an unprecedented rise in tourists, driven by post-pandemic travel and a weakened yen.