Ward governments around Tokyo got tough on smokers Wednesday as various ordinances took effect that ban smoking along public streets.
Shinagawa Ward's ordinance first took effect at the end of March, when it banned pedestrians from smoking in public places such as streets and parks.
Now that a six-month grace period has ended, the ward government will slap a 1,000 yen fine on people who violate the ordinance in areas around Gotanda, Oimachi, Musashi-koyama and Aomonoyokocho stations.
Some 200 people, including Shinagawa Mayor Kyuji Takahashi, were on hand in front of JR Oimachi Station in the morning to inform passersby of the new rule.
One 56-year-old man who said he is a regular smoker indicated he will follow the rule, as "it is a sign of the times."
Meanwhile, Chiyoda Ward expanded its ordinance banning smoking on streets to areas around Tokyo Station.
Suginami Ward restricts such smoking around Ogikubo, Asagaya and Koenji stations on the JR Chuo Line, but it is still considering whether offenders should be fined.
