Japan’s Ginzan Onsen restricts day-trippers to curb overtourism

Picturesque Ginzan Onsen limits day-trippers to combat overtourism (Image: Canva)

Ginzan Onsen, the picturesque hot spring town in Japan’s Yamagata Prefecture, known for its nostalgic charm with snow-covered buildings and lantern-lit streets, is taking a bold step to tackle the challenges of overtourism. Starting December 25, 2024, the town began limiting entry to visitors during the evening hours, implementing new measures aimed at preserving its tranquility and preventing overcrowding during the winter season.

Under the new trial rules, only guests staying at local accommodations will be allowed to enter Ginzan Onsen after 8 pm. For those who wish to visit between 5 pm and 8 pm, prior reservations are required.

This move comes in response to increasing problems caused by the rising number of visitors, including traffic disruptions, dangerous conditions on snow-covered roads, and safety concerns during winter storms.

Ginzan Onsen, which draws around 330,000 visitors annually, has faced growing congestion due to the influx of tourists, exacerbated by winter weather.

Authorities reported that snowstorms and cars without snow tires have led to roadblocks, making it difficult for emergency vehicles to reach the town. The situation was so critical that there were instances where ambulances had to rely on foot travel to reach people in need.

To mitigate these issues, authorities have asked day-trippers to park at a designated tourism center located about two kilometers away and use shuttle buses to reach the town. This change is expected to improve traffic flow and help avoid bottlenecks, especially in the winter months when visibility is low and roads are slippery.

This trial measure is part of Japan's larger strategy to manage the surge in tourism following the post-pandemic travel boom. With over 33 million foreign visitors this year, surpassing the 2019 record of 32 million, popular destinations like Ginzan Onsen are experiencing increased pressure.

To tackle similar issues of overcrowding and disruptions, Japan has introduced comparable restrictions at other major attractions, including Kyoto and Mount Fuji.

With these new policies, Ginzan Onsen hopes to strike a balance between maintaining its appeal for visitors and safeguarding the local environment and community. By taking proactive steps, the town aims to ensure its charm is preserved for years to come, allowing future generations of travelers to experience its unique beauty without compromising the serenity that makes it special.

(With inputs from AFP)