Himeji Castle raises admission fee for foreign visitors, keeps discount for locals

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site in western Japan, increased its admission price for non‑resident visitors to 2,500 yen (about $15.50) on 1 March, while city residents continue to pay 1,000 yen. In the first month after the change, visitor numbers fell 17%, roughly as expected, but ticket revenue more than doubled.

The price hike is part of a broader Japanese effort to manage overtourism and boost revenue from overseas tourists. The government is also tripling the departure tax to 3,000 yen and raising visa fees fivefold. Similar dual‑pricing schemes are being applied at other cultural sites and attractions across the country.