Shibuya District claims that excessive tourism causes disturbances to local residents.

One of Tokyo’s most popular tourist neighborhoods is implementing strict measures to curb misconduct caused by overtourism. The new regulation aims to ban alcohol consumption in public spaces.

The measure, set to take effect in October, will prohibit drinking alcoholic beverages on the streets and in public areas of Shibuya from 6 PM to 5 AM daily. It is worth noting that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20.

Shibuya, an autonomous district within Tokyo, has the authority to create and enforce its own local regulations. This initiative was taken in response to complaints from residents, who have faced constant problems due to the unruly behavior of intoxicated tourists. Local authorities believe this ban will help maintain order and tranquility in the neighborhood, especially at night when alcohol consumption tends to peak.

In addition to reducing disturbances for residents, the measure also aims to protect Shibuya’s reputation as a safe and welcoming tourist area. The district is known for its vibrant nightlife, which attracts visitors from all over the world. However, the rise in tourism has brought significant challenges, such as increased vandalism, excessive noise, and unruly behavior.

To ensure compliance with the new law, Shibuya’s municipal office plans to increase police presence in busy areas and implement awareness campaigns to educate both residents and tourists about the new rules. The expectation is that this combination of measures will help create a more harmonious environment for everyone without sacrificing the vibrancy that makes Shibuya so special.

This regulatory change reflects a growing trend worldwide, where popular tourist destinations are adopting similar measures to balance the benefits of tourism with the need to maintain public order and residents’ quality of life.

Mayor Ken Hasebe recently shared his concerns with journalists, emphasizing the need to clarify Shibuya’s intentions regarding public alcohol consumption. He stressed, “We stepped up patrols and other efforts last year, but we’ve heard people say: ‘Well, the rules say you can drink, right?’ We’d like to communicate the district’s intentions, including during patrols – we’d prefer that people enjoy their drinks inside restaurants.”

This statement may not surprise local residents, who have already witnessed similar measures in the past. Last fall, for example, Shibuya banned activities related to Halloween in the district, citing alcohol as the main reason for the prohibition. This included banning drinking alcohol outside of bars and restaurants.

Mayor Hasebe revealed that local businesses supported the regulations in October 2023 and were behind the push to make them permanent. These actions reflect an ongoing trend toward stricter regulations to ensure public order and residents’ safety while maintaining Shibuya’s vitality and attractiveness as a popular tourist destination.

The city of Shibuya expressed concerns over the damage caused by excessive tourism, describing the problems that have arisen due to drinking alcohol in the streets. In a statement issued last October, it said, “The damage caused by overtourism has become severe, resulting in property damage caused by street drinking, fights with local residents, and large amounts of litter, including empty cans and bottles.”

Despite these challenges, Shibuya remains home to some of the most popular attractions in Japan’s capital. These include the iconic Meiji Shrine, the expansive Yoyogi Park, and the famous “Shibuya Scramble,” recognized as the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. These tourist spots are beloved by both visitors and locals, but managing the impacts of tourism has become a priority to ensure Shibuya remains a welcoming and vibrant destination for all.

Japan has faced significant challenges in managing overtourism since fully reopening after the pandemic. In April and May of this year, more than three million visitors arrived in the country, and the trend is expected to continue during the summer. This increase in tourist numbers has raised concerns about the impact on local communities and the preservation of Japanese culture.

An essential aspect of managing this influx of international tourists has been educating visitors about local culture. Informing and raising awareness among tourists about customs and local practices is crucial to minimize conflicts and ensure harmonious coexistence between residents and visitors.

In the historic city of Kyoto, known for its beautiful old alleys where one can spot geishas and their apprentices, local residents have sought ways to deter foreign tourists from harassing these women during their commutes to work. The geishas, symbols of traditional Japanese culture, often become targets of excessive curiosity and invasive behavior from some tourists. To combat this, several strategies have been implemented, including awareness campaigns and signage explaining the importance of respecting these artists’ privacy.

These initiatives in Kyoto, like the measures adopted in Shibuya, reflect Japan’s broader effort to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect its communities and preserve residents’ quality of life. Authorities are committed to creating an environment where both visitors and residents can coexist respectfully and harmoniously, maintaining cultural integrity and social peace.

To address the growing challenges associated with tourism in Kyoto, the official tourism office has taken a proactive approach, implementing various educational and preventive measures. Posters have been displayed and pamphlets distributed, addressing a variety of social customs in Japan, from bathroom etiquette to tipping practices. This information has also extended to geishas, with visitors being advised not to touch the women, attempt to wear their kimonos, or take photos without permission.

In addition to efforts by the tourism office, local residents of Gion, known as one of Kyoto’s most iconic historical neighborhoods, have also taken measures to protect their privacy and tranquility. Among these actions is blocking private alleys to prevent tourists from invading sensitive residential areas.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. So-called “geisha paparazzi” and other invasive tourists still cause conflicts between visitors and local residents. These individuals often disregard guidelines and continue seeking experiences that violate privacy and mutual respect. This lack of sensitivity can lead to growing tensions and harm the relationship between the local community and visitors.

To resolve these conflicts more effectively, a joint effort between local authorities, the tourism sector, and the community may be necessary, including implementing stricter law enforcement measures and ongoing education for visitors about the importance of respecting local culture and customs. Only through a comprehensive and collaborative approach will it be possible to ensure a positive and sustainable tourism experience in Kyoto and other destinations across Japan.