#Japan #Tokyo #No Tobacco Day #Yellow-Green

Tokyo's Bright Initiative for World No Tobacco Day

As May 31 approaches, World No Tobacco Day, Tokyo is gearing up for a significant celebration with a vibrant twist. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in collaboration with the Tokyo Medical Association, will light up notable landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree and the Sumida River Bridge Group in a striking yellow-green hue, which symbolizes the fight against secondhand smoke.

A Colorful Reminder

This initiative is aligned with the 5th anniversary of the comprehensive enforcement of the Tokyo Secondhand Smoke Prevention Ordinance, established in April 2020. The iconic yellow-green color serves as a beacon urging the public to reflect on the importance of smoking cessation and the prevention of secondhand smoke. It originally emerged from a citizen's campaign in 2001 in Sasebo City, Nagasaki, to express the desire for smoke-free environments.

Details of the Light-Up

On the evening of May 31, major facilities will be beautifully illuminated as follows:

• - Tokyo Skytree: 9:00 PM to Midnight
• - Sumida River Bridges (including the iconic Kurauma Bridge and others): 15 minutes post-sunset until 11:00 PM
• - Statue of Liberty in Odaiba: 6:00 PM to Midnight
• - Shinbashi Station: 5:00 PM to 12:30 AM

Continuing with No Tobacco Week

This light-up event marks the beginning of No Tobacco Week, lasting from May 31 to June 6. During this week, several other prominent locations will also celebrate with illumination:

• - Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM (excluding projection mapping times)
• - Tokyo Medical Association Building: 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (not on June 1)
• - Tokyo Gymnasium: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (only on specific dates)
• - Komazawa Olympic Park: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• - Shibuya Hikarie: Dusk until 1:00 AM (ongoing until June 30)

Digital Promotions and Public Awareness

In addition to the dazzling lights, digital signage will broadcast educational videos and informative content about smoking prevention and cessation support from May 1 to June 6 across various venues including Shinjuku and Tokyo Dome City.

Furthermore, from May 31 to June 2, the exhibition area at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building will showcase award-winning posters from the Smoking Prevention and Secondhand Smoke Prevention Poster Contest focused on reducing smoking among young people.

A Commitment to a Healthier Tokyo

With the aim to significantly reduce smoking rates to below 15% for men and under 5% for women by the next fiscal year, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is actively collaborating with local municipalities and organizations to eradicate opportunities for secondhand smoke exposure. The efforts reflect a marked decrease in smoking rates over recent years and a comprehensive understanding of the health impacts of smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.

As you enjoy the illuminating sights across Tokyo, consider joining the movement by sharing your experience on social media with the hashtag #WorldNoTobaccoDay. Let’s embrace a healthier lifestyle together under the glow of the yellow-green lights.

By advocating for a smoke-free environment, we can contribute to a better tomorrow for all residents of Tokyo.