In December, Osaka City experienced a significant surge in applications for its special home-sharing district, a scheme dedicated to home rentals popular with tourists. This unexpected rise is connected to the city's efforts to manage the burgeoning tourism industry more effectively, particularly focusing on private accommodation rentals meant to alleviate hotel shortages. The system allows registered users to lease their homes for short-term stays, capitalizing on the increasing tourism demand.

Homestay and sharing services like Airbnb have grown rapidly in Japan, spurred by revised laws on private lodging. However, due to concerns about security, community disturbance, and safety regulations, cities have established zoning regulations. Osaka is one of the cities adapting to these changes, with people keen to explore this growing sector, hence the application surge.

In the US and EU, similar shared economy systems like homestays are a commonplace part of the tourism industry. However, zoning laws often vary by local jurisdiction, leading to conflicts between hosts, local residents, and authorities. Japan's approach attempts to blend the need for tourism growth with respect for local communities.