Locals and tourists alike in one of Tokyo’s most visited wards now risk being fined if they’re caught being careless with their trash.
According to NHK World-Japan, the international media arm of Japan’s public broadcaster, starting June 1, authorities in Shibuya have been fining those caught littering in the ward’s public areas. That means people in Shibuya should take the necessary steps – if they weren’t already – to ensure their bottles, cans, food wrappers, cigarette butts, and other handheld trash are properly disposed of. Litterbugs will have to cough up ¥2,000 – ($12.19 at the time of this reporting) for each offense.
A banner hanging in the streets of Shibuya City plainly warns, “If you throw trash, you lose cash.”
What Else Should Tourists Know About Shibuya And Its Littering Fine?
One of 23 city wards, Shibuya is largely considered the best for seeing Tokyo’s stylish side and experiencing the energy of its youth culture. Also, the ward is home to the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, Shibuya Crossing, as well as commonly visited hotspots including Harajuku, Omotesando, Ebisu, and Daikanyama. Notably, the Japan National Tourism Organization highlights that nearly 3 million people cross Shibuya Crossing every day.
The Tourism Division of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs shares a data catalog on its website. According to the authority’s 2024 information, Shibuya is the No. 1 place in Tokyo where foreign travelers visit, with about 62% of those surveyed making it to the bustling ward during their time in Japan.
Those caught littering in Shibuya will be able to pay what they owe via credit cards, cash, or by scanning a provided QR code. Payments will need to be made directly in the moment that offenders are caught red-handed. That said, if you litter, make sure you also have the funds on deck to pay up.
