What rights do Japanese people have at 18?

Turning 18 in Japan comes with several legal rights and responsibilities, including the right to vote, drive, work without restrictions, sign contracts independently, get married with parental consent, sue or be sued in court, join the military, obtain a passport and travel abroad without parental consent. However, the legal drinking and smoking age is 20 years old, and those who earn income must pay taxes regardless of age. Additionally, citizens aged between 18-69 may also be called upon as lay judges in certain cases.

Question about Japan

Can 18 year olds smoke in Japan?

The legal age for purchasing and smoking tobacco products in Japan is 20 years old, and underage smoking is illegal with penalties for both sellers and smokers. There has been a debate about lowering the legal age to 18, but opponents argue that it helps prevent underage smoking. Despite the legal age being 20, around 10% of Japanese high school students smoke due to peer pressure or stress. Smoking has adverse effects on health, including an increased risk of lung cancer and heart disease. The Japanese government has made efforts to reduce smoking rates among youth through campaigns, taxes, and restricting sales near schools. Parents play a crucial role in preventing their children from smoking by educating them about its harmful effects.