Street Smoking Banned in Many Areas
Most major cities ban smoking on public streets. Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama have designated no-smoking zones. Fines: ¥1,000–¥30,000.
Find Designated Smoking Areas
Smoking is only permitted in officially designated smoking areas (喫煙所, kitsuen-jo). They are often near train stations or in specific zones.
No Smoking Near Train Stations
Smoking within a certain radius of train station entrances is prohibited in most cities. No exceptions.
Indoor Smoking Mostly Banned
Since 2020, smoking indoors in public spaces (restaurants, offices, hospitals) is generally banned. Some bars/small venues may have smoking areas.
E-Cigarettes & Vaping
E-cigarettes and heated tobacco (IQOS, etc.) are subject to similar rules as regular cigarettes. Nicotine liquid for e-cigs is illegal to import.
No Walking While Smoking
'Aruki-tabako' (walking while smoking) is banned in many areas and considered very rude. Always stop in a designated area.