Shibuya Authorities Urge Tourists to Avoid Halloween Celebrations Due to Overtourism Concerns

Authorities in Shibuya City, a district within Tokyo, have issued a formal request to both domestic and foreign travelers to avoid celebrating Halloween in the area from October 27-31 due to concerns over overtourism. They cite property damage, altercations with locals, and littering caused by the holiday celebrations.

The Shibuya Crossing is known as the world’s busiest intersection, and officials fear that the influx of tourists eager to party in Tokyo may be even larger following the full reopening of Japan’s borders in 2022. Measures include banning drinking in the streets during those dates from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m., encouraging liquor stores not to sell alcohol, and deploying additional police and security guards to the area.