Japan's renowned "Legacy Inn," known for its traditional hospitality, has reportedly decided to ban smoking, much to the surprise of its smoking patrons. The decision is intended to pursue a healthier environment and is in line with the global trend towards smoke-free public spaces. The announcement timing has not been specified, but it seems likely that the changes will be implemented with immediate effect.

Japan is a nation with an ongoing relationship with smoking, which is gradually shifting towards less tolerance, especially in public places where non-smokers might be affected. The decision of the Legacy Inn indicates a growing trend in businesses adopting a more health-conscious, smoke-free stance, potentially influenced by government regulations. The reaction of the public will be a test of how open society is to such changes.

In the US and EU, many states and countries enacted smoking bans in enclosed public places and workplaces years ago, considering secondhand smoke's harmful effects. The move by the Legacy Inn aligns it with the attitudes in these parts of the world.