Due to high demand, the depreciation of the Japanese currency, and labor shortages, accommodation prices have soared in many Japanese cities.
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If you plan to travel to Japan’s Kyoto anytime soon, be prepared to spend some Yen. Don’t be surprised if one night in a double room sets you back NT$17,000 (US$527). After the coronavirus pandemic eased, Japan welcomed overseas tourists with open arms. However, this also led to a surge in accommodation demand, causing hotel prices in various parts of Japan to skyrocket. Among them, the biggest increase of 88% was seen in Kyoto.
One tourism expert says Kyoto is an ancient capital so there isn't much land available for building big hotels. He says that due to the significant depreciation of the Japanese currency, the rising prices are reasonable. This imbalance between demand and supply has forced hotels and guesthouses to raise prices in an effort to attract and retain workers. The situation has been further exacerbated by the low exchange rates, which have made it less attractive for foreign workers to seek employment in Japan.
Right now is the peak season to admire maple trees in Japan, meaning prices are even higher. So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, travel experts suggest booking your tickets earlier in order to grab a better deal.