In preparation for hosting the World Expo 2025, one of the largest cities in Japan, Osaka has implemented a groundbreaking initiative to enhance its image as an international tourist destination. As of 27 January, the city has imposed extensive restrictions on the inclusion of public smoking, roads, parks, plazas and other public sectors. This prohibition extends not only to traditional cigarettes but also to volatile products, in which violations are fined 1,000 yen (about $ 6).
According to Osaka city officials, the primary objective of this initiative is to create a safe, safe and comfortable environment for both residents and visitors. By expanding smoking areas to cover the entire city, Osaka aims to promote a cleaner, more beautiful urban landscape. As stated in an official announcement, “The purpose of this initiative is not only to beautify the city, but also to ensure a safe, safe and comfortable living environment for residents and visitors.”
Japan’s national laws already prevent smoking in establishments such as restaurants, offices and public transport, in some cities, additional restrictions are applied to public places. In addition, the country has strict rules about the use of tobacco among minors, prohibited from buying smoking and tobacco products with individuals under 20 years of age.
Despite these measures, Japan still struggles with a significant smoking population. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of tobacco use among Japanese citizens has come down from about 32% to about 16% in 2000 in 2000. A 2022 survey conducted by the Ministry of Health of Japan revealed that the smoke of 14.8% adults in the country, motivating the ministry to set a target to reduce the national smoking rate by 12%.
According to the Disease Control and Prevention Center, in 2022, with 19.8% adults for the use of current tobacco products, there is a significant smoking rate in the United States.
To facilitate a smooth infection for the new rules, the local government of Osaka has created a map that reflects areas where smoking is still allowed. Similar anti -smoking measures have been successfully implemented in other Japanese cities including Tokyo, which introduced strict rules before the 2020 Olympics.
The issue of smoking in Japan has also attracted attention to the behavior of public figures, especially those who engage in weak smoking. A remarkable example is Shoko Miata, the captain of the Japanese female gymnastics team, who withdrew from the Summer Olympics in Paris last year after accepting smoking and drinking at the age of 19.
So far, Osaka has spent 164.7 billion yen ($ 1.16 billion) at the event, including the major infrastructure changes. Expo 2025 will be a 6 -month case, which is going on from 13 April to 13 October.
