Travel hotspots across the world often have some restrictions, but five locations have announced new rules and restrictions that go that bit further
New rules and restrictions have been announced for five popular holiday destinations across the globe.
With over-tourism being discussed more, tailor-made holiday platform, TravelLocal, has pulled together a list of the travel hotspots that have recently introduced restrictions and some are quite unusual.
Japan – Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on the Japanese island of Honshu. It is the tallest mountain in Japan and the second-highest volcano located on an island in Asia, with an elevation of 12,389ft. Whilst the last eruption took place over 300 years ago, following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake media speculated that the shock may induce an eruption.
The site has long been a popular destination for climbers and tourists wanting to capture photos of the scenic view. However, Japanese authorities recently announced that the country will be introducing new restrictions to block one of the most iconic photo spots overlooking Mount Fuji. The decision came after many local residents in Fujikawaguchiko had complained about badly behaved tourists littering and parking illegally in the area.
On February 1, the Japanese authorities also announced that they would start charging £10 per head to those looking to climb the iconic mountain and will be limiting the number of climbers to 4,000 per day.
Huw Owen, co-founder at TravelLocal said: “Opting for public transport is a great way to cut down on traffic and environmental impact. It’s also a great opportunity to enhance your experience and explore hidden gems and lesser-known attractions. If you’re keen to keep active during your trip, opt for a bike instead of hiring a car or, even better, travel on foot.”
Hawaii – Haiku Stairs
Also known as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’, the Haiku Stairs is a steep steel step structure that commonly features in travel blogger posts and across Pinterest accounts. The steps were originally used by a top-secret US Navy facility on the island, which used the location to transmit radio signals to Navy ships. Despite being officially closed since 1987, many travellers have still trespassed to visit the steps and take pics for social media.
Now, authorities in Honolulu have announced that they will be removing the historic Haiku Stairs, following reports of misbehaviour from influencers and hikers. The removal of the 3,922 steps began at the end of April 2024.
Looking after the environment is important in any location, but it is particularly significant in Hawaii due to its agricultural exports. “There are accommodations that prioritise sustainable initiatives, such as eco-lodges, green hotels or resorts with eco-certifications,” shared Huw. “Many of these establishments utilise renewable energy sources, implement water conservation measures and support local communities through responsible tourism practices. They also provide an experience that you often can’t find anywhere else.”
Japan – Kyoto
Kyoto is the capital city of Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan’s largest and most populous island (1.46 million) of Honshu. Usually referred to as the cultural heart of Japan, the city is full of temples, shrines, landscaped gardens and varying views over the city.
Earlier this year, Japan announced that tourists would be banned from parts of Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, Gion. Gion is a small neighbourhood known for its narrow lanes lined with teahouses, bars, clubs and pachinko parlours — venues dedicated to the game of Pachinko, which is similar to pinball. The ban followed complaints that over-tourism had led to travellers crowding the streets and taking pictures of the famous Japanese entertainers, geishas. Signage has been placed across the town and those who ignore the new rules will be charged a fine.
Huw explained: “It’s so important for travellers to appreciate and embrace the differences in cultural beliefs and customs by taking the time to understand each destination and its people. I’d always encourage travellers to research the area and its traditions so they can better understand the people and their way of life before visiting.”
Balearic Islands – Ibiza and Majorca
The popular party destinations of Ibiza and Majorca have been in the news a lot recently due to local anger toward tourists. While locals have planned a protest for May 24, popular Balearic Islands including Ibiza and Majorca have announced that certain areas will now prohibit the sale of alcohol between 9:30pm and 8am. With millions of tourists travelling to Spain each year for its vibrant nightlife, the new measures aim to combat any ‘rowdy’ tourists.
With many visitors prioritising the nightlife over locals, it is easy to forget about the many wonderful local businesses in the Balearic Islands. “Supporting local communities can come in many forms; from purchasing souvenirs from local markets and independent shops, to dining at locally owned restaurants, bars and cafes,” commented Huw. “There is no better way to appreciate a destination’s true culture, and I would always encourage travellers to choose local businesses over international chains. Also consider booking onto local initiatives or experiences, such as cooking classes, guided tours, nature trails or local craft classes to give you deeper appreciation for the country you’re visiting.”
Italy – Venice
It comes as no surprise that Venice makes this list. Venice became the first city in the world to introduce a payment system in response to over-tourism. Visitors are now being charged an entry fee of up to €5 (£4.26) per day between the hours of 8:30am and 4pm. In the future, the city also hopes to restrict tourist groups to a maximum of 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers from June 2024.
“There are so many benefits, for both the traveller and the environment, when you choose to visit lesser-known destinations,” explained Huw. “First of all, it empowers smaller local communities and helps to create opportunities for locals to start new businesses, whilst easing the pressure on overcrowded tourist spots. You also tend to mingle more with the locals and will enjoy a more authentic experience.”
