TOKYO (TR) – Shibuya Ward has officially announced a 2,000-yen fine will be levied on anyone caught littering. Enforcement will begin next June, reports Nippon News Network (Dec. 18).
According to Shibuya Ward, the number of people visiting the area has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in an increase in littering on the streets, especially around Shibuya and Harajuku stations.
In response, the ward assembly passed and enacted a bill to levy the fine of 2,000 yen on anyone found littering within the ward.
Ken Hasebe, Shibuya Ward mayor, said, “We have decided to fundamentally review our littering countermeasures and make partial revisions to the ‘Shibuya Clean City Ordinance for Everyone to Build Together.'”
Ward inspectors and others will be on patrol the area 24 hours a day. If anyone is caught littering, they will be required to pay the 2,000-yen fine.
In addition to cash, electronic money is also being considered as a means of collection.
The ordinance also includes provisions making it mandatory for convenience stores, cafes and other establishments in designated areas, such as around Shibuya Station, to install trash cans. Businesses that do not install them will be subject to a fine of 50,000 yen.
Collection of these fines will begin on June 1, 2026.
