The Japanese city is “beautifying” itself ahead of hosting the World Expo — not by planting flowers, but by banning cigarettes.

Osaka mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama says the ban will make city ‘safe’. Meanwhile the Osaka region is extending a ban on smoking in restaurants.

Discover the Hungarian Pavilion at Expo 2025, blending architecture, culture, and sustainability in a unique immersive experience.

From April, the wider Osaka region will prohibit smoking in eateries with seating areas larger than 30 square meters, although lighting up in a separate space, such as a smoking room, is allowed. Current national laws ban smoking in establishments with dining areas over 100 square meters.