Shinjuku Ward to Implement Ban on Private Lodging Services in Residential Zones

In a significant move to address growing concerns among residents, Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward is set to prohibit minpaku, or private lodging services, in residential areas and near schools. This decision could impact approximately half of the nearly 4,000 minpaku establishments within the ward.

The ward's administration has cited a surge in complaints from local residents as the primary reason for this ban. Reports of disruptive behavior from guests, including violations of trash disposal guidelines, late-night noise disturbances, and smoking near homes, have prompted this response. Just in the fiscal year ending March 2025, Shinjuku Ward recorded a staggering 1,334 complaints related to such issues, a dramatic increase from only 82 in fiscal 2021.

In a rare move, the ban will also affect existing minpaku operators, allowing them a grace period to cease operations. While the exact timeline and logistics for this transition are still being finalized, ward officials are committed to addressing the concerns raised by the community. Additionally, the ward has taken action against five operators, revoking their licenses for three years, as part of ongoing efforts to regulate the minpaku industry.

Source: www.japantimes.co.jp