I often write about how Japan seems to be following behind the U.S. and Europe by about 10-15 years, a belief that's quite common among the Japanese themselves, who perceive that their country is less "advanced," only making major social changes after the ideas have become well-rooted in the West. It was recently announced that a starting in April, smoking will be completely banned in most JR stations in the Tokyo area, good news to those who dislike smelling others' cigarettes but a blow to Joe Salaryman who just wants a quick puff before getting on the train for home. Looking back, it was right about a decade or so ago that smoking bans really came into their own in the States with California's widespread limits on smoking in many public places in 1998, so the timing seems to be holding up pretty well. Incidentally, if you're wondering why everything "official" like government-run programs or the Japanese school year always seem to start in April, the answer is cultural. To the Japanese mind-set, spring represents a new beginning, and it's natural that important changes be timed to start in the season of renewal.
5 comments:
I'm so happy to hear this!
Yes, it's more convenient. Although Japanese smokers have such good manners, I start feeling sorry for them. Already they have smoking areas that are enclosed with separate ventilation areas, which is a pretty good middle ground.
so I am the only one thinking "NOOOOOooooo" I take it? Most platforms in Tokyo were non-smoking anyways, even lately it is becoming increasingly uncommon to have those smoking areas on the ends of the platform that usually take so long to walk to, it isn't worth it if you aren't waiting at least 10-12 minutes for your train.
I suppose the only day I will really complain will be when I am no longer able to have a pint and a cigarette at the same time indoors.
@ Peter:
Japanese smokers "have such good manners"? Maybe out in Gunma, but here in Tokyo... well, I don't consider walking in dense crowds with a lighted cigarette "good manners". Or putting out on the street corner while waiting for the light to change, for that matter (the corner nearest my house is constantly covered with butts).
@Jonathan:
I feel for you, but I for one will welcome the day I can go to an izakaya for an evening and not come home reeking of cigarette smoke, or feeling like I myself smoked half a pack. I went home for the holidays and was delighted to find that my home city has joined a host of others in banning smoking in all restaurants and bars. Hangovers are notably milder when not compounded with cigarette smoke.
"Smorking" is one of those weird and repeated errors I have had a hard time figuring out a reason for, but I think it must be because "heavy smoker" comes out as hebii sumo--ka--, and a lengthened "o" in katakana sometimes represents "or" in English (such as "ko--n" for "corn"). Hence "smorker"?
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