Litterbugs now face on-the-spot fines in Tokyo's tourist hotspot

Litterbugs in the Japanese tourist hub of Shibuya will now face an on-the-spot fine of 2,000 Japanese yen ($13; £9), as new penalties take effect amid the country's tourism boom.

The fine collection system kicked in on Monday in Shibuya Ward, a commercial and entertainment centre that is home to the famed Shibuya Crossing.

In certain districts, authorities are also handing out fines for food and beverage shop operators who do not install waste bins.

Japan welcomed a record 42.7 million foreign visitors in 2025, and its government is trying to soothe the tensions this tourism boom has caused for local communities.

Officials say that around Shibuya there's been an increasing number of people, including foreign tourists, openly drinking and littering, public broadcaster NHK reported.

As part of the anti-littering campaign - which carries the slogan "if you throw trash, you lose cash" - those found littering in Shibuya will be fined on the spot and made to pay via cash, credit card or QR codes.

Authorities say up to 50 officials will be deployed to patrol neighbourhoods and impose the fines.

"We cannot tolerate littering simply because there are no rubbish bins," the Shibuya Ward authorities said in a press release. "We ask for your cooperation in creating a city where everyone can enjoy themselves comfortably."