Readjusting to normal life while also being conscious of Covid-19 coronavirus can be a slippery slope. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases spiked after Tokyo moved into stage two of its reopening plan on June 1, causing the government to issue a coronavirus alert. One of the most difficult things about managing the coronavirus comes down to contact tracing; since the virus is extremely contagious and people could be asymptomatic carriers, anyone can spread it unknowingly.
Now, Osaka is stepping up its contact tracing game. On Monday June 1, the prefecture reopened its restaurants and nightlife venues and introduced the ‘Osaka Covid-19 Tracing System’. The Mainichi reports that the voluntary system involves QR codes placed at the entrance of participating venues. Each business has a unique code, which visitors scan on entry.
Scanning the code prompts you to register your email address, and logs the time you entered the venue. If someone who happened to be in the same place on the same day as you is later diagnosed with the virus, then you’ll get an email notification, letting you know you may have been exposed. The venue must give consent to release its name, so by default, you won’t be told exactly when and where you came into contact with an infected individual.
The Japan Times reports that ‘restaurants, bars, nightclubs, cafés, pachinko and mahjong parlours, movie theatres, concert halls and museums’ have been asked to sign up to the system and register their data, although it is completely voluntary. Universal Studios Japan, which will reopen on June 19 for Kansai residents, will also use the same QR code-based system.
Hopefully, the tracing system will help curb a second wave of coronavirus outbreak. In the meantime, let’s do our best and continue to wear face masks, social distance and avoid crowds.
See our guide on how to go out safely and practise social distancing in Tokyo.
More news from Time Out Tokyo
Cinnamoroll is the most popular Sanrio character in Japan, as ranked by fans
The Toyosu fish market has started reopening to the public this week
Coronavirus is changing the way Japan thinks about drinking parties
Small Worlds Tokyo miniature theme park will feature Sailor Moon and Evangelion exhibits
Michelin Guide adds new green clover symbol to highlight sustainable restaurants