Minpaku, which refers to private lodging services utilizing empty rooms in apartments or houses, has played a crucial role in supporting the growth of Japan's tourism industry by catering to the inbound demand from foreign tourists. However, in urban areas where these lodgings are concentrated, there have been a rise in complaints from residents, prompting local governments to strengthen regulations on the operation of such facilities. This article summarizes the current state of minpaku in Japan, detailing its types and the regulatory framework surrounding its operation.

There are three main types of minpaku in Japan based on different applicable laws: 1) general minpaku under the Minpaku New Law, which allows relatively easy registration but limits operational days to 180 per year; 2) special minpaku under the National Strategic Special Zones Law, which has no annual operating day restrictions but is limited to designated areas; and 3) simple lodgings under the Ryokan Business Law, which requires municipal authorization and has a higher barrier of entry. The nuanced regulations across different municipalities add layers of complexity to the business model, affecting their viability and operational capabilities.

As of January 2026, there were 38,112 minpaku registered under the Minpaku New Law, with 40% located in Tokyo's 23 wards. The growth of minpaku has been substantial, with numbers doubling compared to May 2023 after restrictions were relaxed. Special minpaku, which targets guests staying for at least two nights, boasted 22,286 rooms nationwide by the end of 2025. Notably, over 95% of these are concentrated in Osaka City. Even though Japanese people are significant users of minpaku, the perception often leans towards foreign tourists as the primary beneficiaries of this lodging type.