Oct 22 (Japan Times) - Hoping to avoid Halloween-related rowdiness, Shibuya Ward in Tokyo will ban alcohol consumption on streets this coming weekend and on Halloween itself.
Although the ordinance carries no punishment for violations, the ward adopted it in June as part of efforts to keep the area around Shibuya Station calm when Halloween revelers descend on the district.
Crowds around the station have grown increasingly rowdy during recent Halloweens. Last year, a light truck was overturned.
The ordinance prohibits the consumption of alcohol in parks and on streets near the station this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and on Oct. 31 (Halloween) and Nov. 1.
Shibuya Ward will enforce the ban again on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Besides alcohol, the ordinance targets loud music, climbing on street lights and other acts “disturbing the public peace.â€
The ward will also place signs on shopping streets warning against troublesome behavior.