As more people have grown aware of the health hazards, the number of smokers in Japan has dropped sharply, according to data from the cigarette maker Japan Tobacco. The Ueno Zoo even announced that it was considering a smoking ban to protect visitors coming to see a newborn panda. Early next year, Tokyo’s metropolitan assembly will vote on whether to ban smoking indoors in most public places, including restaurants, hotels, offices, department stores, airports, universities and gyms. “It’s almost like bullying the smokers.”The national health ministry has proposed a smoking ban similar to the one Tokyo is considering. Masahiro Shibatsuka, 67, an engineer who had met up with a childhood friend for drinks and a light meal of grilled squid, said the proposed Tokyo ordinance went too far.

Source: New York Times November 27, 2017 14:37 UTC