I've been planning a trip to Kyoto next spring and noticed that hotel prices have tripled compared to 2019, while the local bus system is now packed with tourists every single day. Residents seem genuinely frustrated, and I read that some neighborhoods are considering restrictions on short-term rentals. But here's what I can't figure out: if mass tourism brings in billions of yen and supports countless local jobs, where exactly do we draw the line between welcoming visitors and protecting a city's soul? Do we really need to choose between economic growth and authentic travel experiences, or can smart policies actually balance both?