Osaka bans street smoking, fines for violators; includes vaping.
Osaka has expanded its smoking ban to include all streets, effective January 27, ahead of the 2025 World Expo.
Osaka’s stepping up its game! Starting January 27, smoking on the street is banned across all of Osaka City. This isn’t just a random rule; the city of 2.75 million has already prohibited smoking in certain areas, and now it’s clamping down everywhere. E-cigarettes and vape pens are included, so if you want to puff, you’ll need to find one of the designated smoking spots.
Don't think this is a law with no teeth. Patrols are rolling out, and if you light up on the streets, you’re looking at a fine of 1,000 yen (about $6.40). This ban is part of a broader beautification project, gearing up for the Expo 2025 World Expo in April, which is bringing in visitors from all over. 330 smoking zones are in the works for your smoking pleasure—just not on the sidewalks!
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