The life of a smoker in Japan is difficult.
Firstly, the price of cigarettes is high. A pack costs more than 500 yen.
Secondly, only an adult can buy it in a store. That is, according to Japanese law, a person who has reached the age of 20. You can find cigarette vending machines, but you need a special TASPO card to buy them.

Thirdly, there are high fines for smoking in the wrong place. We are talking about those who smoke in public places, for example, walking along the main streets. The amount of the fine may vary depending on the area and city. The average is 2000 yen, the maximum fine is 10 times more. Compliance with the law is monitored by legal compliance officers. For example, people in uniform, with forms for issuing a fine, can be seen at stations near large stores. In order not to get into an unpleasant situation with the officers, you need to pay attention to the signs. As a rule, they are understandable without translation.

In cafes and restaurants, waiters will offer you 禁煙席 きんえんせき (non-smoking places). If you have difficulty with Japanese, you can say “no smoking” in English, you will be understood.

From personal experience, I can say that non-smoking areas are common in Japan. Only a couple of times I came across small Chinese restaurants without places for non-smoking people.