Tokyo's Trendy District Implements Public Drinking Ban
In a bid to address unruly conduct, a bustling Tokyo neighborhood is enforcing a ban on public alcohol consumption, urging visitors to enjoy their drinks indoors instead.
Shibuya, a favorite tourist spot in Tokyo, is implementing a new rule to address unruly behavior - by restricting alcohol consumption to indoor venues.
Starting in October, the new regulation will prohibit drinking alcohol in public spaces or on the streets in Shibuya from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily. It is important to note that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20.
Shibuya City, a self-governed district within Tokyo, has the authority to create its own local regulations.
Mayor Ken Hasebe recently shared with reporters that they have increased patrols and other activities in the past year. However, some people have questioned the rules regarding drinking in public areas. To clarify the district's intentions, including during patrols, they would prefer individuals to enjoy their drinks inside restaurants.
Local residents may not be shocked by this news.
In the past, Shibuya decided to prohibit Halloween events in the area due to concerns about alcohol. This included a ban on consuming alcohol outside of establishments. Mayor Hasebe mentioned that local businesses were in favor of these rules last October and advocated for them to become permanent.
Last October, the city released a statement expressing concern over the severe consequences of overtourism****. This includes property damage from drinking in public, conflicts with locals, and widespread littering of empty cans and bottles.
Shibuya is a bustling district in Tokyo, known for its famous attractions such as Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and the iconic "Shibuya scramble" - considered to be the busiest intersection in the world.
Maiko participate in a bean festival in Kyoto.
Maiko participate in a bean festival in Kyoto.
The Asahi Shimbun/Getty Images
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Geisha paparazzi have returned to Kyoto, and the city is prepared to respond. Japan has been facing challenges with overtourism**** since fully reopening after the pandemic. In April and May of this year, over three million tourists visited the country, and this trend is expected to continue throughout the summer.
Educating visitors about the local culture is important when dealing with the increase in international tourists. In Kyoto, a city rich in history, you can often see geisha and maiko in the traditional alleyways. However, locals are working to prevent foreigners from bothering these women as they go about their daily activities.
Kyoto's official tourism office has posted posters and handed out brochures discussing various social customs in Japan, including bathroom etiquette and tipping practices. Visitors are also reminded to respect geisha by refraining from touching them, tugging on their kimonos, or capturing their photos without permission.
In addition, residents of Gion have taken steps to protect their privacy, such as blocking off private alleys.
Despite those measures, though, “geisha paparazzi” and other nuisance tourists still cause conflict between visitors and locals.
CNN’s Xiaofei Xu contributed reporting.
Editor's P/S:
The new alcohol restriction in Shibuya is a reflection of the growing concern over unruly behavior and overtourism**** in Japan. While the measure aims to address public nuisance and protect local businesses, it also raises questions about balancing tourism with the preservation of local culture.
Educating visitors about local customs and respecting the privacy of individuals are crucial aspects of managing the influx of tourists. However, it is essential to find a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the integrity of the community. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, Japan can continue to attract tourists while maintaining the unique character of its cities.
