Current date: 2025-12-19 (JST)
What Happened
Shibuya Ward will implement a revised ordinance to address the growing issue of littering in its busiest districts. Starting June 1, 2026, individuals caught dropping trash in public spaces will face a 2,000 yen fine. 1
The new rules also require certain businesses, including convenience stores, cafes, and food trucks, to install trash cans for customer use. This part of the ordinance will be effective from April 1, 2026. Businesses that do not comply may face a 50,000 yen fine after official warnings. 2
Why This Matters for Travelers
This change directly affects short-term visitors and long-stay travelers in some of Tokyo’s most popular areas. Travelers who purchase food and drinks from takeaway shops will need to be mindful of the new rules to avoid fines.
The requirement for more trash cans could make it easier to dispose of waste properly, which has been a common challenge for tourists in Japan where public bins are scarce. The enforcement will apply to everyone, as a ward survey from July 2025 noted that littering is almost evenly split between foreign visitors (52%) and Japanese residents (48%). 1
Location & Context
The ordinance targets the high-traffic areas around Shibuya Station, Harajuku Station, and Ebisu Station. These neighborhoods are major hubs for shopping, dining, and tourism, and often experience significant crowding.
The ward aims to maintain a clean environment as the number of visitors has increased. The atmosphere can be very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, which contributes to the litter problem.
Dates & Timing
•April 1, 2026: Requirement for designated businesses to install trash cans comes into effect.
•June 1, 2026: Enforcement of fines begins for both individuals littering (2,000 yen) and non-compliant businesses (50,000 yen).
Access Information
The affected areas are directly accessible from major train stations:
•Shibuya: JR Yamanote, Saikyo, Shonan-Shinjuku Lines; Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hanzomon, Fukutoshin Lines; Tokyu Toyoko, Den-en-toshi Lines; Keio Inokashira Line.
•Harajuku: JR Yamanote Line; Tokyo Metro Chiyoda, Fukutoshin Lines (at Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station).
•Ebisu: JR Yamanote, Saikyo, Shonan-Shinjuku Lines; Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
There are no new access restrictions associated with this ordinance.
Practical Notes
•Fines: 2,000 yen for littering.
•Payment: The original source mentions that patrol officers, who already handle smoking violations, will be responsible for enforcement. It is not yet specified if fines must be paid on the spot, but it is wise to be prepared.
•Language: Shibuya Ward plans to use multilingual signage and outreach to inform foreign visitors about the new rules. 1
Official Information
The primary source for this information is the official Shibuya Ward website, which announced the revised ordinance.
Summary
Shibuya Ward is taking new measures to combat littering in its most crowded districts. From June 2026, anyone caught littering will be fined 2,000 yen. The rule change also mandates that convenience stores and cafes in the area must provide trash cans starting in April 2026. This policy is a response to increased waste from a growing number of tourists and residents.
Sources / References
[1] Shibukei.com: 「ポイ捨て」に罰則金 渋谷区が改正条例施行へ、長谷部健区長が会見 (https://www.shibukei.com/headline/19630/ )
Notes & Limitations
•The exact method for paying the fine is not detailed in the initial announcements.
•The success of the ordinance will depend on the level of enforcement and public cooperation.
Certainty Level
High
