Airbnb can continue operations in Japan adhering to new rules
What's the story
The Japanese government has now okayed Airbnb to operate in the country without getting embroiled in regulatory hurdles, it has also set new laws for home sharing.
Under the new guidelines, those who provide such accommodation will have to get themselves registered with the local government; local authorities will also impose some restrictions if they deem fit.
Here's all about it.
Law
Okayed with caveats
As per the legislative bill passed by Japan's upper house, private homes will only be able to allow accommodation under their roof in lieu of a fee, for 180 nights a year.
Japan is currently the fastest-growing market for Airbnb and tourist numbers are expected to swell as Japan preps up to host World Rugby Cup in 2019 and then the Olympic games.
Norms
Airbnb is happy with the norms
Airbnb's country manager for Japan, Yasuyuki Tanabe said that the firm was happy with the legislation passed by the Japanese government and it reflected on Japan's unique needs along with fulfillment of their demands.
In fact, Japan's house sharing norms are more lenient if one compares them with the 90 days and 60 days ceilings given for similar accommodations in London and Amsterdam, respectively.
Owner
There is a choice to be made
The law also separates Japanese households sharing their own houses from absentee landlords, who are renting their apartments on a regular basis, emphasizing on the latter as a possible source of friction in the adjoining neighborhoods.
Thus, almost 70% of the Airbnb listings will have to make a choice of making this a full-time rental property gig, rather than a secondary source of income.
Redefine
The firm is looking at new possibilities
Airbnb is also in the process of redefining itself as more than just a home-sharing platform. It's currently looking at various avenues like luxury tourism, airfare aggregation, group payments and guest management to expand its current portfolio.
The firm started offering unique experience packages last year, which gives users a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture of the country they are visiting.