[Sportschosun, Jang Jong-ho] Chinese users are voicing strong criticism after Japan sharply raised visa fees.
According to Japanese media outlets, including Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK), the Japanese government said it will raise the fee for single-entry visas from 3,000 yen, or about 28,000 won, to 15,000 yen, or about 143,000 won, starting July 1. The fee for multiple-entry visas will also rise from 6,000 yen, or about 57,000 won, to 30,000 yen, or about 286,000 won.
This is the first visa fee increase since 1978.
After the announcement, some argued that the move was aimed at China.
South Korea, Taiwan and the United States, which are among Japan's most frequent visitors, have mutual visa exemptions and can stay in Japan without a visa for up to 90 days.
Chinese netizens said the increase was too steep and expressed complaints such as, "Then we just won't go," "Raising fees at a time when relations between the two countries are cold seems suspicious," and "It looks like even fewer tourists will visit."
Toshimitsu Motegi, Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, said, "The current visa fees were set in 1978, and this measure is a response to inflation and exchange-rate fluctuations." He added, "We do not expect the visa fee increase to have an immediate impact on tourism revenue."
Jang Jong-ho, bellho@sportschosun.com
