Smokers in Tokyo have seen the number of places where they can light up shrink rapidly in recent years, with smoking now off-limits in many streets and offices, but help is at hand in the form of a city guide showing areas where puffing is allowed.
The updated version of "Tokyo Kitsuenjo Map" ("Tokyo Smoking Area Map"), published by PHP Institute, identifies about 200 smoking areas in the metropolis, covering major urban areas, 84 train stations, Haneda airport and large commercial complexes. It also indicates smoker-friendly cafes.
The 95-page booklet, available for ¥350, also provides handy details about the smoking areas, such as "public restrooms nearby," "with chairs" and "close to a cigarette machine."
"Smokers should take advantage of smoking facilities that have been set up in more areas as a result of the antismoking trend," one of the book's editors said, suggesting that nicer smoking areas with comfortable chairs and great views await.
Nonsmoking areas are being expanded in Tokyo and elsewhere in the nation under a health promotion law and local ordinances.
