In recent years, “minpaku” (private lodging) businesses using services like Airbnb have gained attention. However, it’s not something you can operate freely without rules. That’s where the “Minpaku New Law” (Private Lodging Business Act) comes in.
This article explains the law, the necessary procedures, and the rules you must follow when operating a minpaku business.
■ What is the Minpaku New Law? ■
The Private Lodging Business Act (Minpaku New Law) establishes regulations for private lodging facilities.Due to the rapid growth of the minpaku industry, the law was enacted to ensure safety and peace of mind for users and nearby residents.
- It is a “notification system,” unlike hotel laws or special minpaku zones, so administrative approval is not required.
- You can start your minpaku business by submitting a notification.
- If the property owner does not live in the property, a manager must be designated.
- The number of operation days is limited to 180 days per year.
■ Basic Procedures and Operations ■
To operate a minpaku, you must notify the authorities as a private lodging business operator.
- Hosts must submit a guest ledger every even month (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec) for the past two months.
- Even if there are no guests, a report is still required.
- Guest ledgers must be kept for 3 years.
■ Important: 180-Day Operation Limit ■
The law limits minpaku operations to 180 days per year per registered property.
- The period is from noon on April 1 to noon on April 1 of the following year.
- Days are counted based on noon as the cut-off.
Example: Check-in at 5 PM on April 1 and check-out at 1 PM on April 3 (2 nights, 3 days) will count as 3 days.
- This limit applies per property, and does not reset if the operator changes.
- Violations can result in up to 6 months imprisonment or a fine of up to 1 million yen.
■ Required Equipment and Safety Measures ■
Fire Safety Equipment
- Fire alarms in each room
- Fire extinguishers in the kitchen
- Evacuation signs or emergency lights if necessary
Sanitation Management
- Clean bedding and towels
- Waste separation rules posted
- Regular cleaning of bathrooms and toilets
Room Size
- At least 3.3 m² per guest is required.
■ Support for Foreign Guests ■
- Provide guidance in foreign languages for how to use the facilities, transport options, and emergency contacts in case of disasters.
■ Consideration for the Neighborhood ■
Key Points to Explain
- Noise prevention
- Garbage disposal etiquette
- Fire prevention practices
*These should be explained clearly based on past complaints.
■ Handling Complaints ■
Operators must respond promptly and appropriately to complaints from local residents.
Ignoring frequent complaints may result in an official order to improve operations.
■ Waste Disposal Rules: Minpaku Waste is Business Waste ■
Waste generated from minpaku is classified as business waste, not household waste.
- Disposing of it as household waste can lead to violations of the Waste Management Law.
- Penalties include up to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to 10 million yen, or both.
Disposal Options
- Municipal collection or direct drop-off (cost-effective)
- Outsourcing to waste management or minpaku operation services (less hassle)
■ Delegation and Signage Requirements ■
Intermediary Registration
- Only registered private lodging intermediaries or travel agents approved by the Japan Tourism Agency may handle contracts.
- When delegating, you must notify them of your notification number.
Signage Requirements
- Signs must be visible to the public, such as at the gate or front door.
- Install between 1.2 m and 1.8 m above the ground.
Starting a minpaku business requires correct knowledge and procedures based on the Minpaku New Law. While platforms like Airbnb make it seem easy, there are many rules regarding facilities, reporting, and neighborhood considerations.
Understanding the law and operating responsibly ensures a safe and trusted experience for both guests and the community. If you’re thinking about starting a minpaku business, be sure to follow the points covered in this article for a successful and trouble-free operation.
SeaHome supports finding the right property for your minpaku or Airbnb business. Start your ideal minpaku operation with us today!
