In Japan’s National Parks, in several cases, visitors are asked to pay fees because of insufficient budgets to conserve the natural environment and maintain facilities. Although the introduction of entrance fees has been frequently discussed at council meetings, it has yet to be established in the natural park system. However, according to a survey conducted in FY2023, 127 cases of entrance fees, fundraising by local governments and the private sector, and efforts to create an appropriate cycle between conservation and utilization were identified in national parks nationwide, and the number has been increasing annually. This study analyzed the circumstances of the discussions, introduced cases in Japan, and examined prospects based on discussions on user payments in Japan and abroad. To introduce user payments, managers should clarify the projects that are affected by budget shortfalls, consider cost sharing between public funds and visitor payments, and create a system that considers fairness. However, the most crucial aspect is building consensus with local stakeholders based on the results of the preliminary surveys. This collaborative approach is key to the successful implementation of user payments. Prior publicity, reliable and transparent systems, and
monitoring should accompany the system’s operation.
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