All we want is for life to return to its normal, mundane self, but with still no vaccine for Covid-19 coronavirus in sight, we all just have to adapt and adjust. Tokyo announced today that the metropolis is going full steam ahead with its reopening plan. Tokyo entered stage three just last week on June 11, allowing theme parks, karaoke bars and pachinko parlours to reopen and for public events to be held with a maximum of 1,000 people. This month, museums, restaurants and shops have all reopened to the enthusiasm of the public.
Effective June 19, Tokyo is lifting all its coronavirus business restrictions, including for venues that involve the so-called Three C’s – closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings – such as nightclubs and live music venues. According to Kyodo News, this completes the last step of the reopening process.
Even though all businesses and eateries are open, venues are taking their own extra precautions to avoid spreading the virus. Temperature checks are now a common occurrence upon entering stores and restaurants. Face masks are also required in venues and can only be taken off when eating or drinking. Karaoke bars are reopening with stricter rules, including limited capacity and mask-wearing singers. Even the izakaya drinking party, a time-honoured tradition in Japan, is stepping up with face shields and rearranged seating.
All of these practices are just another step in adjusting to the new normal, living a regular life along with necessary precautions to avoid spreading or contracting the virus.
Going out this weekend? See our guide on social distancing in Tokyo.
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