The Japan Tourism Agency is considering introducing a system in fiscal 2026 to partially subsidise the demolition of abandoned "ryokan" Japanese-style inns in "onsen" hot spring resorts and other locations.

Facing a crackdown on unregistered accommodations, the operators of 200 small hotels and guesthouses in Chiang Mai’s Muang district on Friday jointly hired a team of experienced lawyers to petition the court to legalise their businesses, as well as asking for help from related agencies.