From left: Takeshi Saito, Mayor of Edogawa Ward; Yukio Hattori, Mayor of Taito Ward; Kenichi Yoshizumi, Mayor of Shinjuku Ward; Hirofumi Niki, State Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare; and Miyuki Takagi, Mayor of Toshima Ward.

Today, June 4, Miyuki Takagi, Mayor of Toshima Ward, along with the mayors of Shinjuku (Kenichi Yoshizumi), Taito (Yukio Hattori), and Edogawa (Takeshi Saito), visited the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare to submit a 'Request for Optimization of Private Lodging Business' addressed to Kenichi Ueno, Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare.

This request was prepared jointly by the mayors of 21 wards who agree on the issue within the Special Ward Mayors Association, and four of these mayors delivered it to Hirofumi Niki, State Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare.

They also plan to submit the request to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Background in Special Wards

The number of registered private lodging properties in the special wards has increased significantly due to the recent rise in inbound tourism, now accounting for over 40% of the nationwide total. However, issues such as noise from guests and improper garbage disposal are negatively impacting the living environments of local residents. Furthermore, there are ongoing cases where operators cannot be contacted for necessary guidance, and unlicensed operations persist.

In light of this, to achieve harmony with resident life, the mayors argue that strengthening regulations according to regional circumstances and implementing effective measures are essential. They strongly requested an immediate review of the private lodging system, including legal reforms.

Comment from Toshima Mayor Miyuki Takagi

Regarding the submission, Mayor Takagi stated, 'In our ward, we revised the "Toshima Ward Ordinance on Ensuring Proper Operation of Private Lodging Business" last December to secure a living environment where residents can live with peace of mind. While we are currently conducting guidance and issuing adverse actions against improperly operating businesses, the number of complaints continues to rise. Therefore, we believe a review of the system, including legal reforms, is necessary to enable region-specific regulations and effective countermeasures.'

Outline: Thursday, June 4, 2026, 14:30–14:45, Office of State Minister Hirofumi Niki, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: News