Anne MercadoCalling all party animals planning a trip to Tokyo — heads up! Shibuya and Shinjuku, two of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts, might be implementing stricter rules on public drinking. The Shibuya-Shinjuku public drinking ban comes after the successful bans during Halloween and New Year’s Eve.
Shibuya, known for its electrifying nightlife and iconic scramble crossing, is proposing a bold step: A year-round ban on public drinking in designated areas.
Also read: Tokyo Public Transport Guide: How to Get Around Without Getting (Too) Lost
Everything you need to know about the Shibuya-Shinjuku public drinking ban
Image credit: (L-R) chayakorn lotongkum and Sabrina Rossi via Canva Pro
If approved, the ban would apply to areas around Shibuya Station, including the famous Hachiko statue and Scramble Crossing. Popular shopping streets like Center-gai and nightlife hubs like Maruyamacho would also be included. The proposed ban would be in effect from 6pm to 5am nightly.
The proposed ban aims to tackle issues like noise, litter, and unruly behaviour associated with public drinking. Shibuya’s Halloween celebrations have seen a dramatic rise in crowds in recent years, leading to concerns about public safety and enjoyment for all.
Shinjuku, Shibuya’s bustling neighbour, might also be joining the party patrol. They’re considering a public drinking ban specifically for Halloween night. This comes after Shibuya’s stricter Halloween regulations potentially pushed partiers towards Shinjuku. Shinjuku’s proposed ban would target the night of 31 October and the following morning, 1 November.
No fines (for now)
Neither Shibuya nor Shinjuku’s proposals currently include fines for violating the ban. However, authorities might be able to confiscate or discard any alcohol consumed publicly within the restricted areas.
These proposed bans represent a significant shift in how Tokyo manages public drinking, particularly during large celebrations. While the focus is on maintaining public order, it could also be a response to concerns about disruptive behaviour from some foreign tourists during Halloween.
Also read: 2024 Affordable Holiday Destinations: Tokyo Now an Inexpensive Option!
While the Shibuya-Shinjuku public drinking ban is still being considered, it’s important to be aware of potential changes. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, especially during Halloween, you might want to adjust your itinerary accordingly. Public drinking might be restricted in some areas, so consider exploring Tokyo’s vibrant bar scene instead!
Featured image credit: f11photo via Canva Pro
