This Town In Japan Has Limited Day Trippers To Combat Overtourism

The popular hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen in the Yamagata Prefecture of Japan will soon begin to implement visitor restrictions to address the growing number of tourists during the winter season. Starting December 23, 2024, and continuing until the end of March, the town will limit the number of day trippers entering during peak hours.

The move was announced by the Ginzan Hot Spring Association, after a rise in road problems, quarrels and other nuisances. The new rules aim to alleviate overcrowding, reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety, and preserve the tranquil atmosphere and snowy beauty that have made Ginzan Onsen a popular destination. Similar visitor limits have been imposed on several famed destinations across Japan, such as Mount Fuji, Kyōto City and parts of Tokyo.

From December 23, 2024, between 9AM and 4PM, there will be no limit on the number of permissible day trippers. However, from 5PM to 8PM, only 100 day trippers will be allowed in the town, provided they have a confirmed ticket or reservation for entering Ginzan Onsen. Tourists without tickets after 5PM will be asked to leave.

Additionally, only those staying at local hotels, employees of the town and vehicles for official/business purposes will be allowed to enter the town after 8PM. Furthermore, until the end of February, day trippers must park at the Taisho Romankan Tourism Centre, which is 2 kilometres away from the hot spring area. A paid shuttle bus will be available to transport travellers back and forth, costing JPY 1,150 (INR 624) per person per ride.

It is estimated that around 330,000 people visit Ginzan Onsen each year. Many share photos online of its old-fashioned buildings blanketed in snow and illuminated by lamplight that create a nostalgic atmosphere. Japan has seen a record influx of foreign tourists this year as the weak yen swells a post-pandemic travel boom.

(With inputs from multiple news reports)