As the number of costume-clad revelers parading the streets of Shibuya on Halloween increases each year, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has decided to make a temporary pedestrian zone in front of JR Shibuya Station each night from Oct 28 to Oct 31 to regulate traffic. The pedestrian zone will occupy only a section near the station.
In recent years, massive numbers of people have gathered in Shibuya at the famous scramble crossing, impacting traffic, pedestrians and businesses. Last year, thousands of Halloween revelers who weren't going anywhere in particular blocked the area and police had their hands full trying to control the crowds. The sidewalks were so jammed with people that it was almost impossible to move between 10 p.m. and midnight.
Given these reasons, the police will turn Bunkamura-dori and Dogenzaka Avenue, situated between the iconic shopping mall Shibuya 109, into a pedestrian zone for the first time during evening hours to enable the crowds to spread out. The scramble crossing outside Shibuya Station will continue to allow passenger vehicles to freely pass through the junctions.
The "DJ" police officer, who has become famous for his handling of crowds in previous years, will also be on hand. The officer, who urges revelers not to get carried away, became a “star” on YouTube because of his eloquent and humorous speaking style.
© Japan Today
16 Comments
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DaDude
If Halloween is getting this big, will someone introduce trick or treating to all neighborhoods? It is a good way for neighbors to get along instead of the occasional greeting or homemakers gossiping.
Pukey2
Why have Halloween on Oct 31 when you can have it any day of the year? Yay!
Come Nov 1, the ghoulish decorations will be down, replaced by Xmas lights. Lovely.
shirokuma
If the authorities don't like the idea of Halloween on the streets of Shibuya....we can always get the Yamanote Halloween Train running again!!!
You pick.
mukashiyokatta
Police presence not wanted, not needed. Please stay away.
Monozuki
Sounds good! Look forward to the “DJ” police office's unique way of speaking this year too.
Spanki
it's a good idea but why don't they organise a halloween party at the stage by NHK/Yoyogi park?
Japan Violet
Seems nice idea. I like some of the costumes very much. Halloween seems to be very healthy (not the candy).
MsDelicious
But I hope at least there will be no clowns.
ChaosWyvern
Wow, what a grouch! I don't really "get" Halloween myself, but these people aren't hurting anyone. Let them have their fun.
dcog9065
Awesome, I've never been to Halloween in Shibz, mostly Ropz
lucabrasi
"... homemade petrol bombs."
So much more heartfelt than the uninspired shop-bought version. ; )
Alistair Carnell
Cue grumpy old man, with homemade petrol bombs.
afanofjapan
Why celebrate anything? Why not just sit at home and be grumpy!
William Wong
Why they need to celebrate Halloween?? Waste of public money and personal savings.
gogogo
Finally some logic
MarkX
Good for them! I hope that people that are there have a good time and act responsibly, because all they need is one stupid event and they will never let this happen again.