Shinjuku, a major commercial and entertainment ward in Tokyo, is moving to ban short-term rental accommodation in residential zones and areas near schools. This follows reports from residents in 2026 concerning unruly tourist behaviour, including noise, rubbish, smoking, and trespassing.
The ward currently has 3,775 private lodgings, known as minpaku, which account for nearly 10 per cent of Japan's approximately 42,070 Airbnb-style short-term rentals, according to the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA). An official supervising holiday rentals in Shinjuku stated that the district plans to revise its current ordinance to implement the ban.
The proposed policy would apply to existing rentals. Local media reports suggest that over 50 per cent of short-term rentals in Shinjuku could face a ban under the new rules, which are expected to be announced by the Shinjuku mayor on Tuesday. Additionally, the number of days per year that minpaku in residential areas can be rented out might be reduced from 180 to 120.
In July, the JTA informed municipalities that they have the right to restrict or ban short-term private lodgings to protect a "tranquil living and educational environment" or prevent actions that "hinder the maintenance of a permanent population and local community." An Airbnb spokesperson noted that "Shinjuku has been an important partner to us, and we take residents’ concerns seriously."