Society | Dec 29

Shibuya to ban outdoor drinking on New Year's Eve

Dec 29 (NHK) - An overnight ban on outdoor alcohol drinking will take effect near Tokyo's Shibuya Station on New Year's Eve to prevent merrymakers from causing trouble during celebrations.

Shibuya Ward will implement the measure between 6 p.m. on New Year's Eve and 5 a.m. on New Year's Day. Huge throngs of people are expected to gather near the station during the period to celebrate.

The ward will enforce the prohibition by applying the same ordinance prepared for Halloween revelers in October. The regulation will bar people from consuming alcohol in public areas near the station, such as the scramble crossing and parks.

The ward will also ask convenience store operators and other retailers in those areas to refrain from selling alcohol during the period. Ward staff will patrol the areas and instruct any violators not to drink.

Ward officials say they hope participants of year-end countdown events in Shibuya will observe the rules and mind their manners when welcoming the New Year.

MORE Society NEWS

'Crying Sumo' Rings Out in Nisshin

The wailing of babies filled the air during the "Crying Sumo" event at Hakusan Shrine in Nisshin City, Aichi Prefecture, on Friday, held to pray for children's health and growth.

Dazzling Horseback Display in Kyoto

At Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, the traditional Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual was performed on Saturday, with riders galloped across a 500-meter stretch at full speed while aiming arrows at targets, praying for the safety of the upcoming Aoi Matsuri, one of Kyoto's three major festivals.

How Does an Elderly Man Survive on Meager 45,000 Yen Monthly Pension?

An elderly man, who lost his wife to cancer, survives on a monthly income of only 45,000 yen. We take a close look at his "real life" on the day he receives his pension.

< 2 3 4 5 >

Sony Joins Investors in Bid for Paramount

Sony Pictures Entertainment, under the Sony Group, in partnership with an American investment firm, has proposed a joint acquisition of the U.S. media giant Paramount Global for approximately 4 trillion yen ($26 billion), as reported by multiple American media sources.

Kagoshima Remembers Kamikaze Pilots

A memorial service for the former Imperial Japanese Army kamikaze pilots who died during the Battle of Okinawa at the end of World War II was held on May 3rd in front of the Chiran Peace Kannon Hall in Minamikyushu City, Kagoshima Prefecture.

Kyoto Reveals Hidden Treasures of 'The Tale of Genji'

Kyoto, the ancient capital bustling with tourists, has commenced a special exhibition of cultural properties at 15 temples and shrines, allowing visitors a rare glimpse into normally private cultural assets, deepening the appreciation of their historical significance.

Dazzling Horseback Display in Kyoto

Young Crowd Revives Rusted Hot Spring Town

Atami, one of Japan's premier hot spring destinations, is witnessing a full-fledged revival. Land prices in the area have increased by 13%, and there's a surge in new eateries opening their doors. Inquiries for resort condominiums built during the bubble era have risen by 1.5 times.