Understanding Eviction Risks in Airbnb Stays in Japan: Osaka and Tokyo

Are there eviction risks when you stay at an Airbnb apartment in Japan's bustling cities like Osaka and Tokyo? This article sheds light on the evolving regulations and provides up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions during your stay.

Introduction to Airbnb in Japan

Since its inception in 2008, Airbnb has transformed from a sharing economy platform into a multi-billion-dollar global hospitality giant, with its latest valuation standing at $31 billion, making it the second-most valuable startup in the U.S. after Uber.

Despite its rapid growth, the rise of Airbnb in Japan has posed regulatory challenges. The Japanese government, recognizing the potential impact of short-term rentals on local housing and tourism sectors, enacted the Minpaku law in 2018 to regulate private lodging services.

Regulatory Changes in Japan

The New Minpaku Law

The introduction of the Minpaku law targeted Airbnb and similar short-term rental platforms, aiming to regulate the industry and protect local communities. This legislation required Airbnb hosts to register their properties with the Japanese Tourist Authorities (JTA) and display their JTA license number by June 15th, 2018.

The new law also restricts the rental period to a maximum of 180 days per year, effectively limiting the duration of short-term stays. Compliance with these regulations became mandatory for continued operation, and any non-compliant hosts faced the cancellation of their listings and potentially even eviction.

Impact on Airbnb Guests and Hosts

For Guests

The new regulations mean that some previously listed properties might now be unregistered or non-compliant, leading to cancellations. However, the primary focus of the new law is on enhancing health and safety standards, ensuring that both guests and local residents remain protected.

For Hosts

Hosts who wish to continue operating their Airbnb properties in Japan are now required to obtain a hotel inn or budget hotel business license. This process involves additional administrative and regulatory hurdles, including obtaining permits from health and fire authorities. The registration with the local Tax Authorities is a lengthy process, and non-compliance can lead to financial penalties and legal issues.

Ensuring Compliance and Protecting Your Stay

To avoid vulnerabilities and ensure a smooth stay, guests are advised to:

Check the host's JTA license number before booking. Verify the property's compliance with the new regulations. Read reviews and inquire about the host's previous experiences with the new law.

In case of a cancellation due to non-compliance, guests can follow these steps to claim their money back or receive compensation:

Submit a formal request for compensation to Airbnb. Review the terms and conditions of your booking agreement. Consider using a 100 Airbnb Experience Voucher as a form of compensation.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Minpaku law has significantly impacted the Airbnb landscape in Japan. As a guest, being aware of these changes and taking the necessary precautions can help you enjoy your stay while supporting hosts who comply with the regulations. Always check the latest updates and ensure your booking aligns with the new standards to avoid any potential issues.

For more detailed information and assistance, refer to the official guidelines and support from Airbnb or the Japanese Tourist Authorities.