Japan became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places: At the national level, smoking is not restricted or prohibited by law in indoor public places, workplaces, or on public transport, although in practice many such places restrict or ban smoking. The only national law that addresses smoke free places requires that property owners, managers, or employers "endeavor” or “try” to take measures “as necessary” to protect against exposure to tobacco smoke without any penalty provisions. Non-binding guidelines serve as the foundation for further national government directions in this area. At the sub-national level, two large prefectures have enacted smoke free ordinances for indoor public places with associated penalties for non-compliance. In addition, smoke free ordinances for crowded outdoor urban streets and walkways are common nationwide.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: While some restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship exist in practice, no forms of tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship are prohibited by law. Restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship operate as a form of “industry self-regulation” pursuant to the Tobacco Business Act, which calls on advertisers to “be mindful so as not to widely and actively encourage smoking.”

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: One or more text-only statements must be displayed on 30 percent of the main area of the tobacco package. Misleading descriptors are not prohibited. However, where misleading terms such as “low tar”, “light”, “ultra light”, or “mild” are used, language must also be used that states that the health impacts are not less than other products.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in Japan are below these recommendations.