Tokyo’s famous Shibuya Ward has begun issuing on-the-spot fines to people caught littering, as one of Japan’s busiest tourist districts tries to control the impact of record visitor numbers.

From June 1, 2026, anyone caught improperly throwing away trash in public areas can face an immediate 2,000-yen fine, about US$13. The rule applies to both tourists and local residents.

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most visited areas and is home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. The district has seen growing problems around train stations, nightlife areas and tourist hotspots, where litter has become more noticeable as visitor numbers increase.

Authorities are expected to increase patrols and use multilingual staff who can communicate in English, Chinese and Korean. Fines can reportedly be paid by cash or cashless methods.

The move comes as Japan continues to deal with the pressure of overtourism. Japan received a record 42.7 million international visitors in 2025, creating new challenges for local communities, public spaces and infrastructure.

For travellers, the message is simple: do not leave trash behind in Shibuya. Visitors should keep their rubbish with them until they find a proper bin, or bring it back to their hotel.

Shibuya’s new rule shows that Japan is no longer relying only on polite reminders. As tourist numbers continue to rise, popular destinations are moving toward stricter enforcement to protect local streets, residents and the visitor experience.