The central government’s Health Ministry has issued an advisory notice to prohibit smoking in all public places including schools, hospitals, department stores, restaurants, bars, public transportation and government departments. The ministry has also requested that all governmental departments notify business managers to implement such measures and is looking into ways to minimize second-hand smoke in work places. 

A big bravo, Health Ministry and Japan for your noble measures to improve public health. May all in your nation and indeed the world soon enjoy intoxicant-free lives of vitality and happiness.

Reference
http://www.japaninc.com/node/3116
http://www.smh.com.au/world/japans-workplace-smokers-and-their-research-foundation-lose-puff-20100226-p92f.html
http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2010-02/26/content_13055852.htm