Osaka has taken a proactive step to enhance the visitor experience and maintain cleanliness in one of its most iconic districts. A new designated outdoor smoking area has been established in Dotonbori, a first for the bustling entertainment hub, directly addressing issues stemming from overtourism.
The Challenge: Managing 30 Million Visitors
Dotonbori, famous for its dazzling neon signs, giant crab displays, and endless street food options, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Osaka. The area attracts an incredible number of people, with annual visitor figures reaching an estimated 30 million.
While this popularity is a boon for the local economy, it has brought significant challenges. One of the most persistent problems has been litter, particularly discarded cigarette butts. With strict street smoking bans in place across much of central Osaka, tourists, both domestic and international, have often been left with no clear place to smoke, leading to littering in alleyways and on crowded sidewalks. This not only detracts from the area’s charm but also increases the burden of cleanup for the local community.
A Modern Solution in the Heart of the City
In response, a new smoking facility has been opened near the Tazaemonbashi Bridge, a central point in the Dotonbori area. This is not just a simple ashtray stand but a well-managed space born from a partnership between the local council and the Japanese telecommunications company, NTT Docomo.
Key Features of the New Area
The facility is designed to be both convenient for smokers and unintrusive for other visitors. To ensure the space is used correctly and to maintain public safety, it is equipped with remote security cameras for monitoring. This technological approach reflects a commitment to creating a sustainable and orderly solution, rather than just a temporary fix.
Impact and Future Outlook: A Cleaner Experience for All
The introduction of this designated smoking area is expected to have several positive impacts.
For Tourists
Smokers will now have a clearly marked, official place to smoke without fear of violating local ordinances. This removes confusion and provides a more relaxed experience. For non-smokers, families, and other visitors, it promises a cleaner environment, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and the unpleasant sight of cigarette litter on the streets. Ultimately, it contributes to a more comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone exploring Dotonbori.
For Osaka
This initiative is a tangible effort to balance the needs of tourism with the quality of life for residents and the preservation of the city’s beauty. If successful, this pilot project in Dotonbori could serve as a blueprint for other high-traffic tourist destinations in Osaka, such as Shinsaibashi, Namba, and the area around Osaka Castle.
This single smoking area represents a larger strategic shift towards proactively managing the impacts of mass tourism. It is a small but significant step in ensuring that Osaka remains a world-class destination that is welcoming, clean, and sustainable for years to come.
