On the 20th, Chinese media outlet Jiemian News published an article titled 'Visa issuance fees increase fivefold, exit tax also raised, cost-effectiveness of travel to Japan significantly declines.'

The article first addressed the Japanese government's announcement on the 19th that visa issuance fees for foreigners entering Japan would be raised fivefold starting from July.

It was also introduced that 'single-entry visas,' which allow foreigners to enter Japan only once, would be raised from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen, and 'multiple-entry visas,' which allow multiple entries within the validity period, would be raised from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen respectively. Foreign Minister Motegi explained that the reason for the increase was to cope with rising prices and fluctuations in exchange rates.

The article also introduced that, similarly from July, the so-called 'exit tax' imposed when traveling overseas from Japan would also be raised from the current 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen.

According to reports, these measures by the Japanese government are based on examples from Europe and the United States, and part of the new revenue is planned to be allocated to 'overtourism' countermeasures. The article also conveyed that there is an analysis stating, 'The increase in visa issuance fees and exit tax will significantly raise the cost of travel to Japan. This will become a direct barrier for budget-conscious tourists and short-term visitors, significantly reducing the cost-effectiveness of travel to Japan.'

The article also mentioned that the number of foreign visitors from mainland China to Japan from January to March fell by approximately 55% compared to the same period last year, 'due to Japan's rightward shift.' (Translated and edited by Yanagawa)