Japan is one of the most smoker-friendly places I've ever lived. So many people smoke here I forget sometimes what it's like to breathe non-smoky air. But one of Tokyo's wards just passed a new ordinance against smokers--the first one of its kind in the country.

As of October 1, Chiyoda-ku is banning smoking outdoors in busy places, like outside Akihabara and Ochanomizu stations. There will be a 20,000 yen fine for smoking in those areas. I don't know if the idea is to clean the air or minimize the litter of cigarette butts, but either way, it will make Chiyoda-ku a nicer place to be.

Chiyoda, Yes we love!