Thank you to all of our loyal readers of Tonbori News.

This year, Chinese New Year (February 15th-23rd) took place again. According to reports, flights from China have been reduced by 60%, and the number of visitors to Japan has also decreased by a similar amount. There were concerns about the impact this would have on Dotonbori Shopping Street, but in reality, hotel accommodation costs have stabilized due to cancellations from group tourists from China, and we have seen an increase in visitors from Korea, Taiwan, Europe, and the United States, so there has been no significant impact on the shopping street.

In addition, on Thursday, February 19th, a long-awaited smoking area was completed in Dotonbori. We had expected approximately 500 people to use the area per day, but in reality, over 1,000 have used it. However, many people have been leaving empty cigarette butts and trash on top of the ashtrays, which has made us keenly aware of the need to raise awareness of proper etiquette. In response, we arranged for the ashtrays to be replaced with extra-large trash cans designed to prevent trash from being placed on top of them two weeks later. In any event, we have seen a dramatic decrease in cigarette butt litter in the neighborhood, and we feel that the installation has had a significant effect.

In April, Osaka Free Wi-Fi will be compatible with international standards, further improving smartphone usability. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we strive to create a safe, secure, and clean city.

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