Do you smoke? If you answered “yes,” the only thing you need to consider while enjoying your trip to Japan is where to smoke. Smoking areas and rules in Japan are unique.
Are you wondering where you can smoke and what the rules are? No need to worry! In this article, we will explain in detail about smoking places and rules in Japan. This information is essential for enjoying your trip with peace of mind, so please bear with us until the end.
Let’s delve into the smoking rules and designated areas in Japan.
Japanese laws regarding smoking were revised in April 2020.
Japan’s attitudes toward smoking began to change in the modern era. Influenced by Western culture, health awareness grew, and concerns about environmental pollution caused by smoking emerged. Consequently, restrictions on smoking became stricter.
In principle, smoking indoors is prohibited to ensure non-smokers are not disturbed by the smoke. If smoking is permitted indoors in a restaurant, it is indicated by a sign posted at the entrance.
A decade ago, smoking areas were rare, and indoor smoking was common practice. However, today smoking areas have been installed in public places, stores, and workplaces, and smoking is restricted to these areas.
Smoking areas
In Japan, if you wish to smoke, you must use designated smoking areas. These areas are located in various places, especially around major train stations and tourist attractions. Smoking areas are places where smoking is permitted, minimizing disturbance to others.
There are several types of smoking areas. Firstly, there are indoor smoking areas. These are situated inside buildings, particularly in shopping malls and establishments such as restaurants and bars, which often provide designated smoking areas.
There are also many outdoor smoking areas, located in parks, on streets, and other designated outdoor areas.
On the left in the photo is a smoking room in a large store, in the middle is a train station platform, and on the right is a smoking area in town.
Signs and information signs indicating smoking areas are easy to find, but not all smoking areas have signs.
rules and manners when smoking
Smoking Rules and Manners In Japan, it is essential to observe the following
Use of Designated Smoking Areas
When smoking in public places, you are required to use designated smoking areas, provided in dedicated smoking booths, rooms, and spaces.
Good Manners
Maintaining good manners in smoking areas is crucial. Avoid talking loudly or disturbing others in these areas. Be considerate of those around you and smoke in a well-mannered manner.
Smoking Outside Designated Areas
Smoking is generally prohibited outside designated areas. Never smoke on pedestrian paths, in parks, or at transportation hubs such as train stations and bus stops.
Littering
Littering outside of smoking areas is prohibited. Dispose of cigarette butts in provided ashtrays and trash cans near smoking areas.
Carry a portable ashtray and get into the habit of not littering.
Caution
In recent years, the number of smoking areas has decreased, especially in restaurants. Some areas and facilities are entirely smoke-free. It’s advisable to research beforehand.
How to Buy Cigarettes
The following is an introduction to how to purchase cigarettes in Japan. The places and methods of selling cigarettes are unique in Japan, and as such, there are several points to note. Below are the main methods and precautions for foreigners visiting Japan to obtain cigarettes.
Buying at Duty Free Shops at Airports
If you are visiting Japan, it is inexpensive to purchase cigarettes at duty-free stores.
This is because Japan is a country with a heavy tax burden on cigarettes. The price of cigarettes includes
- National tobacco tax
- Local tobacco tax
- Special cigarette tax
- Consumption tax
These four taxes are included in the price of cigarettes. The tax burden for a typical cigarette is as high as 60%, although it varies depending on the brand and other factors. Duty-free stores are exempt from these taxes. In addition, discounts may be available if you purchase two cartons in a set.
Convenience Stores
There are many convenience stores (konbini) in Japan. Most convenience stores sell cigarettes. The type and brand of cigarettes may vary from store to store, but most common brands are available at most stores. It is important to carry identification as you may be asked to verify your age at the cash register.
Tobacco Specialty Stores
Some regions and cities have specialty stores that specialize in cigarettes and smoking paraphernalia. These stores offer a wider selection and may have access to unusual brands and types of cigarettes.
Vending Machines
Cigarettes can be purchased from vending machines. However, the Tobacco Control Law, revised in April 2020, has tightened restrictions on sales to minors. As a result, vending machines have been removed in some areas and a special age verification card called “taspo” is required to use the machines. taspo is issued only to residents of Japan, so foreign visitors cannot purchase cigarettes from vending machines.
Using these methods, you can purchase cigarettes in Japan. For inexpensive purchase, it is recommended to buy at duty-free stores. However, there are a few brands available, so the cigarettes you like may not be sold.
Convenience stores are an easy way to purchase cigarettes. Convenience stores are ubiquitous in Japan. Cigarettes are usually displayed behind the cash register with a number on them. Tell the clerk the number of the brand you want to purchase. After that, pay for the cigarettes and you are done.
Summary
In Japan, smoking in public places is restricted. Use designated smoking areas and adhere to manners and rules to avoid disturbing others. Never smoke outside designated areas or litter. Smoking on station platforms is prohibited.
Please utilize this information to enjoy a pleasant trip, respecting Japanese culture and manners. Keep up-to-date with smoking regulations, both in Japan and abroad, for a safe and enjoyable journey.
