Train fare hikes hit Tokyo as sales tax kicks in

Workers in Japan were busy today (Monday) getting ready for the nation’s upcoming April 1 consumption tax hike.

Employees at Tokyo Station installed signs displaying new fares that will kick in when the tax rises from 5 to 8 percent.

Japan’s government will raise the tax further to 10 percent, possibly next year, to pay for social security programs.

Officials will base their decision on the strength of the economy.