News Shibuya Halloween frenzy banned in 2023

For thousands of people, celebrating Halloween in Shibuya, a popular shopping and entertainment district known for its vibrant youth culture, was an annual event to look forward to. Before the coronavirus pandemic, ward officials had welcomed Halloween revelries, even setting up temporary restrooms and spaces for people to change into costumes--though they encouraged participants to celebrate the event in an orderly and peaceful manner. During the pandemic, however, people were asked to celebrate at home instead and attempts were made last year to discourage alcohol sales and consumption in Shibuya around Halloween. Attendance was low, compared to the packed pre-pandemic crowds. This Halloween, with the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, visitors were expected to return to Shibuya in droves--including domestic and international tourists.

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