Hakuba Introduces Fines for Disruptive Tourist Behavior to Preserve Village Charm, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 21, 2025

With the intention of sustaining the peaceful ambiance of Hakuba, a favorite tourist spot in Nagano Prefecture, the government has issued new fines to preserve order in public places. This was in response to the dramatic influx of visitors to the village, especially after the end of the Covid-19 pandemic period. With increasing visitors flowing into the village, the government intends to ensure that both residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful environment.

Increased Tourism Leads to New Challenges

Hakuba, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and prime location for winter sports, has long been a favorite destination for skiers, snowboarders, and nature enthusiasts. The village’s picturesque landscapes and close proximity to major mountains have made it a top spot for both local and international tourists. In 2024, Hakuba saw a record 2.71 million visitors, a 330,000 increase from the previous year. The surge in tourist numbers is attributed to the easing of travel restrictions following the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the influx of tourists has brought economic benefits, it has also led to a rise in disruptive behavior. Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and tourism sectors, have raised concerns about the impact of late-night noise, fireworks, and general rowdiness. Tourism-related businesses have expressed frustration with the lack of regulation, especially regarding late-night disturbances, which have affected the quality of life for both residents and other visitors.

New Fines for Disruptive Behavior

To address these concerns, the Hakuba Village Assembly passed a new bill to amend the Hakuba Village Manners Ordinance. The revised ordinance, which will come into effect on July 1, 2026, introduces fines of up to 50,000 yen (approximately $410 USD) for individuals who engage in behaviors such as:

• Graffiti or vandalism in public areas
• Making excessive noise late at night, especially in residential areas
• Disruptive behavior in public spaces, including disturbing peace with loud music or shouting

The fines will be imposed if individuals fail to comply with requests from authorities to stop their disruptive behavior. This move is seen as a necessary step to maintain Hakuba’s charm and livability as tourism continues to thrive.

Aiming for Harmony Between Tourists and Locals

Hakuba’s Mayor, Toshiro Maruyama, emphasized the importance of creating a balanced environment where both residents and visitors can enjoy their time in the village. He stated that the new fines are not intended to penalize tourists, but rather to encourage responsible behavior that aligns with the village’s values of respect and harmony. Maruyama expressed hope that the introduction of these regulations would foster a more enjoyable experience for all.

The village government is also working on increasing awareness of local customs and manners through tourism campaigns and educational programs. This effort aims to educate visitors about appropriate behavior while ensuring they understand the impact of their actions on the local community.

The Impact on Tourism and Local Businesses

The new regulations are expected to improve the overall tourist experience in Hakuba. By addressing disruptive behaviors, the village hopes to create a more peaceful and respectful atmosphere for all. This is particularly important for businesses in the hospitality sector, which rely on positive reviews and repeat customers. Late-night noise, in particular, has been a point of contention for local businesses, many of which are located in close proximity to tourist hotspots.

For tourists, the introduction of fines may serve as a reminder to be considerate of local customs and the community. By promoting respectful behavior, Hakuba can continue to attract visitors while preserving its unique charm and peaceful environment. Tourists will also benefit from the sense of security that comes with knowing that disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

Hakuba’s Vision for Sustainable Tourism

Hakuba’s approach reflects a broader trend in Japan, where municipalities are increasingly focusing on balancing the benefits of tourism with the need for sustainable practices. The village’s efforts align with the growing interest in responsible and sustainable tourism, where the focus is not just on attracting visitors but also on enhancing the quality of life for residents and minimizing the environmental impact.

Other municipalities across Japan, such as Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture and Kyoto, have already implemented similar regulations to address the challenges posed by overtourism. These initiatives often involve introducing fines for disruptive behavior and encouraging tourists to respect local customs.

In Hakuba, the introduction of fines is a crucial step toward maintaining the village’s status as a top travel destination while ensuring that tourism remains a positive force for both the local economy and community well-being.

A Step Toward Responsible and Sustainable Tourism in Hakuba

Hakuba’s decision to introduce fines for unruly behavior comes as part of the broader strategy to foster responsible tourism, which also preserves the village’s peculiar charm and natural beauty. Implementation of this nature has been put in place to guarantee harmony between those native to the village and visitors, as it is still growing in popularity with tourists from all over the world.