What Toshima’s minpaku rules mean now

Toshima Ward has already tightened the screws on minpaku. The ward’s ordinance cuts the annual operating cap to 120 days, down from Japan’s national 180-day ceiling and bars new short-term rentals in about 70% of the ward, mostly residential and crowded districts.

The change took effect on December 15, 2025 and the tough part is still ahead, because full compliance kicks in on December 16, 2026 for all properties, including existing listings. Complaints about noise, trash and cramped streets pushed the move and honestly, that pressure isn’t going away.

Who feels the squeeze

Hosts lose the most. Tourists, expats and digital nomads who liked Ikebukuro-area stays will see fewer options and prices can rise when inventory gets thinner, especially in non-holiday periods when the ward is clearly trying to slow down turnover.

Residents may welcome it. The ward says the point is to protect daily life in dense neighborhoods and that usually means less disruption, fewer party-house headaches and a bit more breathing room, which, surprisingly, is often the real selling point.

What to do before the 2026 deadline

If you host, check whether your property sits inside the 70% restricted zone, then plan around the 120-day limit right now, because the grace period ends fast and late paperwork won’t save a bad setup. You’ll also need resident notices, explanation meetings and a Japan-based agent if you own from overseas, so don’t wait until the last minute.

If you’re booking stays, expect tighter supply and less flexibility in residential wards, so keep backup options ready and watch for local rule changes across Tokyo, since nearby wards are tightening too. For broader context, follow our visa updates and read our full Japan guide for the complete picture.