In response to smoking restrictions abroad, Taipei is making efforts to promote the concept of a "smoke-free city," moving beyond merely designating no-smoking areas.

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Anti-smoking officers in Japan’s Kobe patrol public areas to ensure no one violates smoking restrictions, while in Tokyo, smokers are rarely seen along sidewalks and shopping streets. Under Japanese regulations, smoking is limited to designated areas, with fines between 1,000 and 2,000 yen (about US$6-12) for violators. 

Inspired by Japan’s success, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) has proposed a stricter anti-smoking policy aimed at transforming the city into a smoke-free environment.  

Chiang said the principle will be “prohibition with limited exceptions,” meaning Taipei will follow international models by establishing designated smoking zones or smoking rooms to separate smokers from non-smokers. A city survey conducted last October found that 85 percent of residents were bothered by people smoking while walking, and 80 percent supported creating fixed outdoor smoking areas.  

At the Taipei Dome, which opened in 2023, smoking is banned throughout the area except for six designated zones screened by large plants. Violators face a fine of NT$2,000 (US$60). Authorities are now considering whether this model could be extended across the entire city. 

Many citizens welcomed the proposal, noting that designated smoking spaces would protect children and pregnant women from secondhand smoke. As Taipei eyes a “smoke-free city,” the success of this initiative will depend on strong public support.