Problems with Overtourism: Tokyo Wants to Ban Alcohol Consumption in Public Places

(Patria) - One of the most popular tourist districts in Tokyo - Shibuya - wants to ban the consumption of alcohol on streets and in public places, every day from 6 PM to 5 AM.

This measure is expected to come into effect in October. And all of this, it seems, is due to the problems caused by overtourism.

Japan is struggling with overtourism after the pandemic - more than three million tourists visited the country in April and May alone this year, and this trend is likely to continue throughout the summer.

Therefore, the Japanese hope, this measure will bear fruit and bring them a little more peace.

"Damage caused by overtourism has become serious, from material damage caused by public drunkenness to quarrels with local residents and the discarding of large amounts of empty cans and bottles," the city announced last October, CNN reports.

Shibuya City, which is a self-governing district within Tokyo, can enact its own measures, and this is one of them, aiming to restrict alcohol consumption on the streets.

However, alcoholic beverages will still be available for order in restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Shibuya is home to some of the capital's most popular attractions, including Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and the "Shibuya Scramble Crossing" - believed to be the busiest intersection in the world.

However, this news is no surprise to the local population. Namely, last autumn, all Halloween-related activities were banned in this district, with alcohol cited as the main reason for the ban. This included a ban on alcohol consumption outside of bars and restaurants.