Japan’s Double-Edged Sword: The Hidden Costs of Japan’s Tourism Surge

A photograph of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine with the seasonal cherry blossoms (Source: Yamanashi Tourism Organization ) By Lily Noda ’28 Cherry blossoms in Kyoto, the neon lights of Shibuya, the serene temples of Nara—these iconic sights have helped transform Japan into one of the world’s top travel destinations. In 2024, Japan welcomed a record-breaking 36.9 million international visitors, a 47.1%…