Ahead of Expo 2025, Osaka enforces public smoking ban
What's the story
Osaka has implemented a public smoking ban from January 27, ahead of hosting Expo 2025.
The ban extends to roads, parks, plazas, etc., and covers both cigarettes and vapes. Offenders will be fined 1,000 yen (about $6 or ₹520 approximately).
City officials said the move intends to "enhance safety, cleanliness, and its image as an international tourist destination."
The city government also released a map showing where smoking is still allowed in the city.
Smoking laws
Japan's national smoking laws and Osaka's initiative
Japan already has national laws to restrict smoking in restaurants, offices, and public transport.
Despite the restrictions, smoking rooms remain common in airports and train stations across the country.
According to the World Health Organization, the number of Japanese smokers has declined from 32% in 2000 to 16% in 2022.
A survey by Japan's Ministry of Health found that 14.8% of adults smoked in 2022, with a target to bring it down to 12%.
Expo 2025
Expo 2025: Osaka's preparations and expectations
Expo 2025 will be held from April 13 to October 13, with 158 countries and regions represented.
Osaka has invested around $1.16 billion (₹10,051 crores approximately) in the event, including infrastructure projects.
The city's smoking ban is part of its efforts to bolster its image as an international tourist destination.
Public figures have also faced scrutiny for underage smoking, like Shoko Miyata, captain of Japan's women's gymnastics team, who withdrew from Paris Olympics after admitting to smoking at age 19.
Sustainable solutions
The 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo: A vision for the future
The 2025 Expo will focus on fostering global innovation and collaboration, aiming to address pressing social challenges.
Its theme, "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," highlights sustainable solutions for the future, emphasizing emerging sciences and technologies.
Japanese organizations are already working together to promote the event, with exciting plans for initiatives like lectures and guided tours that explore these forward-thinking concepts.
International gathering
The legacy of the World Expo 2025
As one of the longest-running global events, the World Expo has been a major international gathering since 1851.
Held every five years, it continues to attract millions of visitors worldwide.
The upcoming 2025 Expo in Osaka, Japan, promises to be a vibrant celebration, drawing attention to the country's rich culture and culinary heritage, along with the latest in scientific and technological advancements.