Shibuya City to Implement Year-Round Outdoor Drinking Ban to Curb Bad Behavior

Starting October 2024, Shibuya City in Tokyo will prohibit outdoor drinking in public places and on streets from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily. This measure aims to address issues related to overtourism and curb bad behavior associated with public alcohol consumption.

The ban, which will be enforced year-round, is a response to increasing complaints about noise, littering, and altercations, particularly involving foreigners. Mayor Ken Hasebe emphasized that the city prefers people to enjoy their drinks inside restaurants. He stated, "By establishing the rule, we would like to convey the district's intentions, including during patrols — we would prefer people to enjoy their drinks inside restaurants."

Why this matters: This ban on outdoor drinking in Shibuya City is significant as it addresses the growing issue of overtourism in Japan, which has been causing problems for local residents and businesses. If successful, this measure could be replicated in other tourist hotspots, leading to a more sustainable and respectful tourism industry.

Shibuya City has been struggling with the negative impacts of overtourism, especially since Japan fully reopened post-pandemic. In April and May 2024 alone, the country welcomed over three million visitors. The influx of tourists has led to property damage, noise, and littering, prompting local authorities to take action.

The new regulations follow a trial period during Halloween in 2023, when outdoor drinking was banned to prevent property damage and public disturbances. The trial proved popular with local residents and businesses, who supported making the ban permanent.

Shibuya's move to ban outdoor drinking is part of a broader effort across Japan to manage the effects of overtourism. Other cities, such as Kyoto, have implemented measures to educate visitors about local customs and protect cultural sites. For example, Kyoto has distributed pamphlets on social customs and blocked off private alleys to deter nuisance tourists.

Despite the new regulations, the draft amendment does not specify penalties for violators. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of the ban. However, the city hopes that the clear establishment of rules will help maintain public order and improve the quality of life for residents.

The ban will cover areas around Shibuya Station, including the north side, Shibuya Center-gai Street, the ward office, Miyashita Park, and the Maruyamacho nightclub district. The city has also hired foreign security guards who can speak English or Spanish to patrol these areas and ensure compliance.

Shibuya City officials are optimistic that the ban will help curb street drinking and improve public behavior. As a ward official noted, "The revision of the ordinance should have a certain effect on such problems as littering and noise."

Shibuya's year-round ban on outdoor drinking is a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by overtourism. By encouraging responsible behavior and maintaining public order, the city aims to create a more pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.

Key Takeaways

• Shibuya City in Tokyo bans outdoor drinking in public places from 6pm to 5am daily starting October 2024.
• The ban aims to address overtourism, noise, littering, and altercations associated with public alcohol consumption.
• The measure follows a successful trial during Halloween 2023 and is part of a broader effort to manage overtourism in Japan.
• The ban will cover areas around Shibuya Station, including popular nightlife districts, and will be enforced by foreign security guards.
• The city hopes to encourage responsible behavior, maintain public order, and create a more pleasant environment for residents and visitors.