In short
Host-absent type minpaku in exclusively residential zones and educational districts can operate only during periods that correspond to spring, summer and winter school holidays. There are no city-specific restrictions on the host-resident type.
Operating days and areas
| Area | Operating period / restriction |
|---|---|
| Exclusively residential zones (Category 1 / Category 2 low-rise and mid/high-rise) and educational districts | Host-absent type: not allowed from January 11 noon to March 20 noon, April 11 noon to July 10 noon, and September 1 noon to December 20 noon |
| All other areas / host-resident type | Up to 180 days a year |
If a site spans more than one area, the rules for the area that contains the majority of the site apply.
Under national law, the upper limit is 180 days a year.
Notice to neighbors before starting
- At least 14 days before filing the notification, inform in writing (residents within roughly 10 m of the site boundary; for condominiums, all units)
- After informing, submit a report of the results
Where to file and consult
Minato Public Health Center, Environmental Sanitation Division (みなと保健所 生活衛生課); book advance consultations by phone. Procedures and required documents can change, so check the latest guidance from the office. A fire safety compliance certificate (消防法令適合通知書) from the fire station is also required.
Other main rules of the ward
- You cannot operate until the minpaku sign is displayed. For condominiums, make the notification number and room number visible from outside
- Respond to complaints at any hour and keep records for 3 years
- Dispose of garbage as business waste (city collection cannot be used)
Additional rules for kan'i shukusho (Hotel Business Act)
- At least 20 days before applying for a license, notify residents within roughly 10 m in writing and display a sign announcing the plan (city guidelines (要綱))
Recent and planned changes
- May 1, 2026: Amendment of the Enforcement Rules of the Hotel Business Act (旅館業法施行細則) (items to be recorded in the guest register)
This page is a translation of our Japanese page. If there is any difference, the Japanese version prevails. Japanese version