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Dotonbori is one of Osaka’s most iconic attractions. The popular nightlife and entertainment district attracts roughly 30 million visitors annually, drawn by the area’s bustling energy, abundant food and drink options, and larger-than-life animatronic signboards – think giant crabs, octopuses and the like.
Dotonbori is also the city’s street food central, cooking up everything à la minute from takoyaki – the quintessential Osaka snack of wheat balls stuffed with octopus – to crepes, taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes with sweet fillings) and wagyu skewers. While eating and walking are generally frowned upon in Japan, here in Dotonbori, it’s part of the experience.
Unfortunately, this means people also tend to smoke on the streets – even though smoking and vaping in public spaces has been banned since January 2025 and carries a ¥1,000 fine. Not only does this create an unpleasant environment for eating out on the street, it also contributes to littering.
Smart rubbish bins were installed to help, but the Osaka Minami-Dotonbori Overtourism Countermeasures Promotion Council is doubling down by creating a dedicated smoking zone in the area.
Located on the south side of Tazaemon Bridge, the smoking area, equipped with 24-hour security cameras, is intended to discourage people from smoking indiscriminately. This should not only reduce littering but also help make Dotonbori cleaner, safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
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