Osaka, one of Japan's major cities, is gearing up to host Expo 2025 by implementing a ban on public smoking. The ban, which came into effect on January 27, covers various public spaces such as roads, parks, and plazas, and extends to both cigarettes and vapes. Violators of the ban will face a fine of 1,000 yen (approximately $6).
The city officials in Osaka have emphasized that the expansion of no-smoking areas throughout the city is aimed at enhancing safety, cleanliness, and the city's image as an international tourist destination. This initiative is not only focused on beautifying the city but also on creating a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for both residents and visitors.
Japan already has national laws in place that restrict smoking in establishments like restaurants, offices, and public transportation. Additionally, some cities have implemented bans on smoking in public places. It is also illegal for individuals under the age of 20 to smoke or purchase tobacco products.
Despite these regulations, designated smoking rooms are common in places like airports, train stations, and other public buildings across Japan. However, the World Health Organization reports a significant decline in tobacco use in Japan over the past two decades, with the smoking rate dropping from around 32% in 2000 to approximately 16% in 2022.
In comparison, the United States has a higher smoking rate, with nearly 1 in 5 adults reporting current tobacco product use in 2022. Osaka's local government has released a map indicating where smoking is still permitted within the city limits following the implementation of the new regulations.
Similar anti-smoking measures have been introduced in other parts of Japan, including Tokyo ahead of the 2020 Olympics. These measures have remained in place since then. Notably, public figures have faced scrutiny for smoking, with instances like the case of Shoko Miyata, the captain of Japan's women's gymnastics team, who withdrew from the Summer Olympics in Paris last year after admitting to smoking and drinking at the age of 19.
The upcoming Expo 2025 in Osaka is scheduled to run from April 13 to October 13. The city has invested 164.7 billion yen ($1.16 billion) in the event, which includes significant urban infrastructure projects.
