What's the government response timeline for Japan?

WHO: "Quarantine and screening measures have been enhanced for travelers from Wuhan city at the point of entries since 7 January." https://www.who.int/csr/don/17-january-2020-novel-coronavirus-japan-ex-china/en/ Cabinet Office: https://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/novel_coronavirus/siryou/sidai.pdf

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/newpage_10549.html (in Japanese) https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10906000/000614804.pdf (in Japanese) The number of PCR tests since 15th Jan.

Cabinet Office http://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/novel_coronavirus/th_siryou/sidai_r020130.pdf (in Japanese) The first case confirmed on 15th Jan.

Cabinet Office https://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/novel_coronavirus/index.html https://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/novel_coronavirus/siryou/sidai.pdf

National Institute of Infectious Diseases (Japan) https://www.niid.go.jp/niid/images/epi/corona/2019nCoV-04-200131-en.pdf As of 31st Jan However, in the current situation, where the pretest probability is not sufficiently high, it is not realistic to try to detect all novel coronavirus infection cases, including mild cases, at quarantine stations and domestic medical institutions.

“As of midnight this morning, it has become possible to implement measures as a Designated Infectious Disease, including hospitalization for the patients infected by the novel coronavirus. In addition, for the time being, we have started implementing extraordinary measures to deny entry of foreign nationals who have any history of staying in Hubei Province within 14 days and those who possess a Chinese passport issued by Hubei Province, unless there is any specific need. I ask all of you to exert efforts to avoid trouble on the ground, by preventing those to whom those measures apply from boarding aircraft, through collaboration among relevant parties, including airlines. Furthermore, I ask the immigration authority to strictly implement these measures, including identifying individuals to whom those measures apply with a system capable of smoothly and easily making the relevant determination, and to exert efforts to implement it adequately by sufficiently paying attention to individuals’ circumstances." http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202002/_00001.html

Cabinet Office Twitter -- Published informational leaflet on COVID-19 control; free to reprint, reproduce ( https://twitter.com/kantei_saigai/status/1224589187719946240)

All those on Princess Diamond cruise ship quarantined. Still a ban on Hubei Province arrivals. http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202002/_00006.html

National Institute of Infectious Diseases (Japan) https://www.niid.go.jp/niid/images/epi/corona/2019nCoV-02-200206-en.pdf Guidelines for Active Epidemiological Investigation in Patients with Novel Coronavirus Infection ? For "close contacts," ask them to pay attention to their health conditions for 14 days after the last exposure, and to inform a healthcare center before visiting a medical institution if they develop a fever or respiratory symptoms. (Attached Investigation Form 3) ? If a "close contact" develops fever or respiratory symptoms, treat him/her as a subject for testing. Even when a close contact is assumed to be at a high risk of developing a severe novel coronavirus infection, monitor his/her health conditions without performing a test, while taking measures to reduce the risk of infection transmission if he/she presents with no symptoms. Pay careful attention to changes in the physical condition of a "close contact" who is assumed to be at high risk of developing a severe novel coronavirus infection.

Government website -- Short movies for the public campaign on Coronavirus. Published on 18th Feb ( https://nettv.gov-online.go.jp/prg/prg20290.html)

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html PCR testing system The flow chart of the PCR test mechanism https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10900000/000606696.pdf The graph shows the data since 18th Feb.

Ministry of health, labour and welfare says "From the perspective of preventing the spread of infection, we ask event organizers to reconsider the necessity of holding the event in consideration of the spread of infection and the situation at the venue. Regarding the holding of events, etc., the government does not currently make a uniform request for self-restraint." https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/newpage_00002.html

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare: "Encourage employees and other personnel to take days off if they have fever or other flu-like symptoms, and promote teleworking and staggered office hours. Recommends/encourages 1) paid workers leave for those infected or showing symptoms, and 2) a transition to working from home (online)" [ https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10200000/000603611.pdf]

While government does not impose restrictions, it recommends organizers of events to make informed judgement about whether to hold or shut down events https://jp.reuters.com/article/japan-government-coronavirus-idJPKBN21506D https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/02/japan-calls-cancellation-events-coronavirus-200226131256898.html https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/02/4d5ff5744493-urgent-abe-asks-big-event-organizers-to-mull-cancelations-for-next-2-weeks.html

"Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10200000/000603610.pdf Measures to be taken a) In communities where the number of patients continues to increase.; ·Switch to broader calls for refraining from going out, while reducing the scale of active epidemiology surveys and health observations on close contacts."

"Given that the government is extremely important in preventing the spread of infection over the past one or two weeks, there is a large-scale infection risk for nationwide sports and cultural events that attract a large number of people. In consideration of the above, we will request cancellation, postponement or reduction in size for the next two weeks." [ https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/newpage_00002.html]

No restrictions in place, despite acknowledgement that "there is a large-scale infection risk for nationwide sports and cultural events that attract a large number of people. In consideration of the above, we will request cancellation, postponement or reduction in size for the next two weeks." [ https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/newpage_00002.html]

Government website -- Movie for the appropriate way of hand washing. Published on 28th Feb, 2020 ( https://nettv.gov-online.go.jp/prg/prg20343.html)

"Almost all prefectures across the nation began shutting schools Monday in a bid to prevent further spread of the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, four days after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe issued a shock request for a total school closure until early April." https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/03/02/national/japan-prefectures-shut-schools-covid-19/ The national govt guidelines are not strict though, and Prefectures have the option not to close schools: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/02/b341be1ebf20-breaking-news-children-should-stay-home-while-schools-closed-over-virus-japan-govt.html

Japan to cancel 11th March tsunami anniversary events. [ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/04/coronavirus-japan-to-cancel-fukushima-anniversary-ceremony-reports]

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html We decided to apply medical insurance to the PCR test (on March 6). This makes it possible for medical institutions to request directory to private laboratories without going through public health centers, and further utilization of the examination capabilities of private laboratories will be achieved.

Ministry of health, labour and welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html Anyone who has boarded an airplane or ships arriving from China or Republic of Korea at or after 0:00 on March 9 (JST)……. and not be isolated or stopped is required to stay 14days at a location designated by the quarantine station chief and not to use public transportation in Japan.

"Japan enacted a time-limited legal change on Friday, enabling Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, if he deems it necessary, to declare a state of emergency to cope with the spread of the new coronavirus." Governors of prefectures in Japan "can ask people to stay indoors under state of emergency." So no policy so far issuing stay at home orders as it was not in Japanese law until 13/03. [ http://english.kyodonews.net/web/20200518175534oe_/ https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/03/57cfa56d5ecc-urgent-japans-diet-gives-abe-power-to-declare-emergency-amid-viral-fears.html]

The Government of Japan has announced broad debt and contract relief to households, small and medium enterprises and large corporations. On the 16th of March, the government announced credit measures for corporations. Further debt support and relief measures were announced on the 27th of April and 22nd of May. These measures inlcude funding against loans and intrest free unsecured loans. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

As of 19.03, no notice of public transport closure. Link archived from a later date as original link wasn't archived, but still no closure of public transport. [ https://www.japan-experience.com/update/coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know]

Japan Times https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/03/19/national/abe-imposes-14-day-quarantine-japan-arrivals-several-countries-europe/#.XngLWtMzZQI "“Given the situation of the spread of infection, we decided we would need to further enhance quarantine for 38 nations, including European countries under the Schengen agreement,” Abe said at the Cabinet-level meeting."

"Regarding large-scale national events and other such occasions, we have asked for the cancelation, postponement or downscaling of such events. The expert meeting advises that the organizers should assess the risks and make a cautious decision. We ask those organizers who are to make such decision to refer to the examples of preventive measures and pay full attention to the prevention of the spread of infections."[ https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/newpage_00002.html]

Cabinet Office provide comprehensive information on its website, including latest measures implemented by the government and relevant authorities. ( http://japan.kantei.go.jp/ongoingtopics/coronavirus_info_e.html)

A request to Tokyo’s citizens concerning the novel coronavirus (message from the Governor), 27th March Tokyo Metropolitan Government website: https://tokyodouga.jp/en/5YhhWbweTiY.html We are now at the critical phase where we face the risk of an explosive rise in novel coronavirus infections. Please stay at home and refrain from going outside this weekend, and hold back from going out at night.

https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10900000/000617686.pdf Ministry of Health, Basic Policies for Novel Coronavirus Disease Control by the Government of Japan as of 28th March (2) Surveillance and Information gathering -Identify suspected disease carrier based on the notification from the doctor, and conduct tests that the doctor considers necessary -Strengthen the testing system by utilizing local and private institutes. Grasp and coordinate the PCR testing system. -Continue to develop simple test kits for rapid diagnosis

https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/10900000/000617686.pdf Ministry of Health, Basic Policies for Novel Coronavirus Disease Control by the Government of Japan as of 28th March (2) Surveillance and Information gathering -Identify suspected disease carrier based on the notification from the doctor, and conduct tests that the doctor considers necessary -Strengthen the testing system by utilizing local and private institutes. Grasp and coordinate the PCR testing system. -Continue to develop simple test kits for rapid diagnosis

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike on Monday asked residents to stay away from bars and music venues, stepping up her call for people to cut back on unnecessary travel as Japan’s capital braces for a rise in coronavirus infections. [ https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-japan-tokyo/tokyo-governor-asks-residents-to-stay-away-from-bars-to-slow-coronavirus-spread-idUSKBN21H1O4]

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html Anyone who has boarded an airplane or ships arriving from China or Republic of Korea at or after 0:00 on March 9 (JST), or from European countries, or Egypt at or after 0:00 on March 21 (JST), or from United States of America at or after 0:00 on March 26 (JST) , or from Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Brunei Darussalam, Viet Nam, Malaysia, Israel, Qatar, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Bahrain at or after 0:00 on March 28 (JST) and not be isolated or stopped is required to stay 14days at a location designated by the quarantine station chief and not to use public transportation in Japan.

Japanese National Tourism Organisation website as of 2nd April https://www.japan.travel/en/coronavirus/ No public transport closure

Ministry of Justice http://www.moj.go.jp/content/001316999.pdf the Ministry of Justice considers foreign nationals who fall under any of the following to be foreign nationals who fall under Article 5, paragraph (1), item (xiv) of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (hereinafter referred to as the “Immigration Control Act”) and unless the foreign national has special exceptional circumstances, the foreign national will be subject to denial of landing

PM’s Cabinet Office http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202004/_00005.html Amidst the situation where the number of patients is rapidly increasing in urban areas, such as Tokyo and Osaka, and medical institutions are already going through a critical moment, Dr. Omi provided the opinion that the government should prepare to declare a state of emergency. Seven prefectures will be subject to the declaration: Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Hyogo and Fukuoka. The declaration of a state of emergency aims at obtaining greater cooperation from the public as much as possible to reduce people to people contact which could result in transmission for the period of approximately one month and thoroughly building medical treatment structures. In Japan, even if we issue the declaration of a state of emergency, we will not enforce the lockdowns of cities as seen abroad. It is the view of the experts that that would not be necessary. We intend to issue the declaration of a state of emergency tomorrow at earliest, having of course consulted the expert members of the Advisory Committee

PM's Cabinet Office: "We ask you to work at home in principle, except for those jobs needed to sustain societal functions. Even in cases where going to the workplace cannot be avoided, I ask all businesses to implement measures such as reducing the number of workers present in the workplace by at least 70 percent through introducing rotating work schedules or other means; staggering work schedules; and maintaining sufficient distance between people." [ http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00001.html]

PM’s Cabinet Office http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00001.html In the view of the experts, even in the current situation, the infection risk in Tokyo or Osaka is not high at all, assuming citizens lead their normal lives while refraining from going out for non-essential, non-urgent reasons. The situation is entirely different from the cities overseas where lockdowns were imposed. Therefore, I ask the public to refrain strictly from taking actions such as moving to local areas outside these cities.

Since the government is only requesting/recommending that people do not attend crowded places, there is no policy in place stating that a mass gathering is banned. For example, citizens are asked not to go to clubs, but could if they wanted to. "Meanwhile, please refrain from going to bars, nightclubs, karaoke parlors, and clubs with live music, where the three Cs overlap in a more concentrated way. I also ask people to avoid gatherings and events and to refrain from holding not only get-togethers for drinks but also dining with large numbers of people other than family members." [ http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00001.html]

PM’s Cabinet Office http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00001.html This declaration of a state of emergency does not in any way intend to close cities or a lockdown as we are seeing take place overseas. I state that clearly. Trains, buses, and other forms of public transportation will continue to operate. We will under no circumstances particularly block off roads, and in the view of the experts, there is no need whatsoever for such measures.

A month-long State of Emergency is issued by Prime Minister Abe in 7 prefectures of Japan. [ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/07/japan-shinzo-abe-declares-state-of-emergency-over-coronavirus] However, the State of Emergency will only "give prefectural governors the authority to call on people to stay at home". "Municipal leaders can merely request that residents under their jurisdiction stay indoors as much as possible." [ https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/03/01/national/japan-coronavirus-outbreak/]

PM’s Cabinet Office http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00001.html In the view of the experts, even in the current situation, the infection risk in Tokyo or Osaka is not high at all, assuming citizens lead their normal lives while refraining from going out for non-essential, non-urgent reasons. The situation is entirely different from the cities overseas where lockdowns were imposed. Therefore, I ask the public to refrain strictly from taking actions such as moving to local areas outside these cities.

Japan declares the state of emergency over coronavirus. Special website on COVID-19 (corona.go.jp) contains the latest official documents (declaration, announcements), people flow rates, population changes, and other latest information. ( https://corona.go.jp/)

State of Emergency order extended to all 47 prefectures. [ https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20200416/p2g/00m/0na/085000c]

Quotation: "Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has promised to give a one-off sum of ¥100,000 ($930) to every citizen of Japan in a stepped-up response to the coronavirus outbreak as he declared a state of emergency across the whole country." Link: https://www.ft.com/content/4053e198-437e-4ae5-aab5-fa0ab05f3fa3

There are no strict enforcements on gathering. The government has been asking people to refrain from leaving homes and gathering in large groups. "I once again make a request of the public. Please refrain from going out. Avoid coming into contact with others to the greatest possible extent. That will protect people at medical facilities and safeguard a large number of lives. It will also lead to protecting you and the people you love. Everything depends on the actions each one of us takes" http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00002.html

Government urges individuals to stay at home to the greatest extent possible at least until the end of 'Golden Week Holidays' (May 6th). "In order to avoid such a situation, in advance of the string of holidays, it will also be necessary to request tourist facilities to close down temporarily in various areas. To prevent the flow of people, an influx of people, we have now expanded the scope of the declaration of a state of emergency to the entire country so that those regions can take necessary emergency measures. To this end, the duration of the declaration will remain unchanged, to May 6, when the Golden Week holidays end. For another 20 days from now, all of Japan must unite as one to battle this virus. I intend to join hands with all of the prefectures and take all possible means to protect people’s health and people’s lives." http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00002.html

"In order to avoid such a situation, in advance of the string of holidays, it will also be necessary to request tourist facilities to close down temporarily in various areas. To prevent the flow of people, an influx of people, we have now expanded the scope of the declaration of a state of emergency to the entire country so that those regions can take necessary emergency measures. To this end, the duration of the declaration will remain unchanged, to May 6, when the Golden Week holidays end. For another 20 days from now, all of Japan must unite as one to battle this virus. I intend to join hands with all of the prefectures and take all possible means to protect people’s health and people’s lives." http://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/statement/202004/_00002.html

https://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202004/_00032.html PM’s Cabinet Office as of 27 Apr. For the 14 countries, including Russia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia, for which we raised the Travel Advice and Warning on Infectious Diseases to Level 3 on April 24, last week, we decided to add them to the areas from which we will deny entry in accordance with the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act. This will be effective as of 0:00 a.m., April 29. Furthermore, with regard to measures we have implemented to date, such as tightened quarantine, including requests to voluntarily stay indoors for 14 days; visa restrictions; and restricting the arrival of flights to certain airports; we will extend the duration by one month, until the end of May, in light of the current situation where infections continue to spread globally.

https://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202005/_00001.html As of 1 May. Prime Minister’s Office. “Having received the report of the Expert Meeting, I instructed Minister Nishimura, just now, to swiftly coordinate with the relevant stakeholders regarding measures in response to epidemiological situations in respective areas, with a view to extending the current framework of the declaration of the status of emergency by approximately one month, while listening to the views of the experts. We intend to make a final decision on May 4, hearing the views of the experts after they thoroughly take into consideration the epidemiological situations in respective regions and latest data.”

https://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202005/_00001.html As of 1 May. Prime Minister’s Office. “Having received the report of the Expert Meeting, I instructed Minister Nishimura, just now, to swiftly coordinate with the relevant stakeholders regarding measures in response to epidemiological situations in respective areas, with a view to extending the current framework of the declaration of the status of emergency by approximately one month, while listening to the views of the experts. We intend to make a final decision on May 4, hearing the views of the experts after they thoroughly take into consideration the epidemiological situations in respective regions and latest data.”

https://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202005/_00001.html As of 1 May. Prime Minister’s Office. “Having received the report of the Expert Meeting, I instructed Minister Nishimura, just now, to swiftly coordinate with the relevant stakeholders regarding measures in response to epidemiological situations in respective areas, with a view to extending the current framework of the declaration of the status of emergency by approximately one month, while listening to the views of the experts. We intend to make a final decision on May 4, hearing the views of the experts after they thoroughly take into consideration the epidemiological situations in respective regions and latest data.”

https://japan.kantei.go.jp/98_abe/actions/202005/_00001.html As of 1 May. Prime Minister’s Office. “Having received the report of the Expert Meeting, I instructed Minister Nishimura, just now, to swiftly coordinate with the relevant stakeholders regarding measures in response to epidemiological situations in respective areas, with a view to extending the current framework of the declaration of the status of emergency by approximately one month, while listening to the views of the experts. We intend to make a final decision on May 4, hearing the views of the experts after they thoroughly take into consideration the epidemiological situations in respective regions and latest data.”

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20200504_01/ NHK as of 4 May. Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is set to extend the nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak by nearly a month until the end of May. The government may basically ask prefectures under a special alert to maintain their current requests for limited activities of people and businesses. The alert is currently in effect for Tokyo and 12 other prefectures, which the government sees as particularly hit hard by the outbreak. But the government may allow other prefectures to partially ease their requests on condition that they strongly call on people and businesses to adopt new lifestyles in the fight against the virus.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20200504_01/ NHK as of 4 May. Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is set to extend the nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak by nearly a month until the end of May. The government may basically ask prefectures under a special alert to maintain their current requests for limited activities of people and businesses. The alert is currently in effect for Tokyo and 12 other prefectures, which the government sees as particularly hit hard by the outbreak. But the government may allow other prefectures to partially ease their requests on condition that they strongly call on people and businesses to adopt new lifestyles in the fight against the virus.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20200504_01/ NHK as of 4 May. Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is set to extend the nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak by nearly a month until the end of May. The government may basically ask prefectures under a special alert to maintain their current requests for limited activities of people and businesses. The alert is currently in effect for Tokyo and 12 other prefectures, which the government sees as particularly hit hard by the outbreak. But the government may allow other prefectures to partially ease their requests on condition that they strongly call on people and businesses to adopt new lifestyles in the fight against the virus.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20200504_01/ NHK as of 4 May. Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is set to extend the nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak by nearly a month until the end of May. The government may basically ask prefectures under a special alert to maintain their current requests for limited activities of people and businesses. The alert is currently in effect for Tokyo and 12 other prefectures, which the government sees as particularly hit hard by the outbreak. But the government may allow other prefectures to partially ease their requests on condition that they strongly call on people and businesses to adopt new lifestyles in the fight against the virus.

"All designated prefectures will make requests not to hold events where clusters could emerge or have gatherings under 3Cs circumstances, especially in cases of nation-wide or large events and gatherings." https://corona.go.jp/en/news/pdf/000628609.pdf

There is still no restriction on gathering size. People are asked to adhere to avoiding the 3Cs (closed spaced, crowding and close-contact settings), but are not under any restriction to gathering size and many public places are still open. I'm coding this as no policy since there isn't an explicit policy, just recommendations.

The state of emergency has been lifted in 39 prefectures. The lifting of the state of emergency in the remaining 8 prefectures will be reviewed on 21 May. https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/05/8128172584ce-japan-may-lift-coronavirus-emergency-in-kyoto-38-other-prefectures.html

As the state of emergency is lifted in 39 prefectures, there is no more nation-wide recommendation of canceling public events. However, individual provincial governments might still take the initiative of canceling such events. https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/05/8128172584ce-japan-may-lift-coronavirus-emergency-in-kyoto-38-other-prefectures.html https://corona.go.jp/en/news/pdf/000628609.pdf

State of Emergency lifted in some prefectures, but still in place in those more at risk of disease spread. "Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Thursday lifted a state of emergency for 39 of the country's 47 prefectures ahead of its planned expiration at the end of the month, paving the way for businesses to gradually resume operations as the spread of the new coronavirus has been kept in check. Urban regions such as Tokyo and Osaka, however, will remain under the state of emergency and people will be asked to stay at home to ensure newly reported cases continue to fall and the burden on hospitals eases." [ https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/05/8128172584ce-japan-may-lift-coronavirus-emergency-in-kyoto-38-other-prefectures.html]

13 new countries with travel ban effective on 16 May: Azerbaijan, Uruguay, Kazakhstan, Cabo Verde, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Colombia, Sao Tome and Principe, Equatorial Guinea, Bahamas, Honduras, Mexico, Maldives https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html

Many prefectures are reopening their schools (Yamagata, Toyama), but others are still prohibiting schools from opening (Kumamoto). https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/18/national/japan-schools-reopen-state-of-emergency/

Likely that next week the govt will start to actively pushing businesses to reopen nationwide https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/23/national/japan-lift-coronavirus-state-of-emergency-monday/#.XsmtDGieQ2w

Emergency status is lifted. There are guidelines for voluntary business closures, but generally, the govt wants economic activity to restart so they did not issue any recommendation to close. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/25/national/japan-lifts-state-of-emergency-coronavirus/

Japan lifts state of emergency in all 39 prefectures: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/25/national/japan-lifts-state-of-emergency-coronavirus/

Although emergency state was lifted, interprefectural travel was not recommended until 19 June: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/06/bd98aeff84d2-freedom-of-travel-restored-across-japan-as-virus-fears-ease.html

Quotation: Abe said the government will be gradually easing restrictions on events such as concerts, starting with a cap of 100 audience members and gradually increasing it to 1,000, 5,000 and then 50 percent capacity. The country needs to change its approach from not holding events to considering how to hold events while reducing infection risks, he said. Link: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/25/national/japan-lifts-state-of-emergency-coronavirus/#.XtlT7577Q_U

In most prefectures of Japan, schools have reopened by June 1. However, the situation continues to be monitored on the local level, and municipalities can choose to keep some schools closed or to close them again. Most universities are still conducting research and teaching in an online format to the greatest possible extent. (1.) For example, on June 13, a local cluster was found in a Kitakyushu school, leading to an announcement that the school will be closed again. (2.) (1.) https://archive.vn/oUa0v (2.) https://archive.vn/D8EL1 https://www.mext.go.jp/content/20200603-mxt_kouhou01-000004520_4.pdf (For reviewers and updaters: Web archive services are unavailable in China, please archive this link when you see this) Education Ministry 98% of the schools in total of all levels have reopened as of 1 June.

Since lifting the state of emergency, the government has allowed some workplaces to reopen the economy. Hygiene and social distancing measures will remain intact. http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/25/c_139087000.htm

MEsures in Tokyo are being eased, and public events and gatherings of upto 1000 people may be allowed. https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-tokyo-japan-further-eases-business-gathering-restrictions-june-12 http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/25/c_139087000.htm

Restrictions on gatherings are lifted. Although large gatherings have to be authorized. They are authorized for work, or charity events. https://www.dlapiper.com/en/uk/insights/publications/2020/06/loosening-the-lockdown/ https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-tokyo-japan-further-eases-business-gathering-restrictions-june-12

Since gatherings and returning to work is allowed. It is assumed that restrictions on public transport are lifted. https://www.dlapiper.com/en/uk/insights/publications/2020/06/loosening-the-lockdown/

https://www.dlapiper.com/en/uk/insights/publications/2020/06/loosening-the-lockd Most restrictions preventing people from leaving their homes are lifted. People do not require reasons to leave their homes.

There is a travel ban for 111 countries preventing their citizens from entering japan https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-tokyo-japan-further-eases-business-gathering-restrictions-june-12

Although the actual income support percentage is not reflected, there is support for households included in the fiscal and monetary response. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

'The key measures comprise cash handouts to every individual and affected firms, deferral of tax payments and social security contributions, and concessional loans from public and private financial institutions.' https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

There is a coordinated public information campaign. https://www.dlapiper.com/en/uk/insights/publications/2020/06/loosening-the-lockdown/

Japan has been critisezed for not testing as well as their counterparts. However, its testing policy was revised to target most symptomatic individuals. This might contribute to their testing policy. https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/1082/ https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/06/02/national/science-health/japan-saliva-pcr-virus-test/

Although emergency state was lifted, interprefectural travel to the Tokyo and Hokaido areas was not recommended until 19 June: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/06/bd98aeff84d2-freedom-of-travel-restored-across-japan-as-virus-fears-ease.html

see above

Govt might ask Tokyo area to shut businesses. Still no measures taken https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/12/national/government-tokyo-area-business-suspension/#.XwuGkiieQ2w

Some events and small scale concerts are definitely taking place around the country, but does not seem to be recommended. Even the Olympics might be cancelled: https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/olympics/tokyo-olympic-games-2020-japan-coronavirus-pandemic-a9611611.html

No state of emergency to be reinstated: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/08/national/coronavirus-cases-state-of-emergency/#.XwuITCieQ2w

No state of emergency to be reinstated: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/08/national/coronavirus-cases-state-of-emergency/#.XwuITCieQ2w

No state of emergency to be reinstated: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/08/national/coronavirus-cases-state-of-emergency/#.XwuITCieQ2w

No state of emergency to be reinstated: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/08/national/coronavirus-cases-state-of-emergency/#.XwuITCieQ2w

More than 100 countries still affected by entry ban: https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/japan-plans-to-ease-entry-ban-for-10-asian-countries-and-regions-071020

No new economic measure. New ones to be announced in Fall: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-japan-amari/japan-expected-to-compile-next-econ-stimulus-in-fall-says-pm-abes-ally-idUKKBN23T3AF

No new economic measure. New ones to be announced in Fall: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-japan-amari/japan-expected-to-compile-next-econ-stimulus-in-fall-says-pm-abes-ally-idUKKBN23T3AF

Same policy to do targeted testing to symptomatic people. Govt is ramping up capacity to test, but it seems that this is not enough. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/10/national/emergency-japans-covid-19-testing/

Govt is now managing to trace back only 39% of the cases. During the first wave it was 70% https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/08/national/coronavirus-cases-state-of-emergency/#.XwuITCieQ2w

https://www.ft.com/content/96747c04-5d05-4d08-a6c7-3ec77b3681d6 (For updaters and reviewers: Web archive services are unavailable in China, please archive this link when you see this) The Japanese government has vowed to press ahead with a contentious campaign to promote domestic tourism despite fears it could spread Covid-19 across the country. Under the “Go To” campaign, Shinzo Abe’s government will offer billions of yen in subsidies to kick start travel to Japan’s regions, which are suffering from a collapse in international and domestic tourism. But after a surge in infections in Tokyo, the government said it would exclude travel to and from the capital, a concession that would sharply reduce the economic impact of the scheme.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YmkVwJ4DnBag2FjdHIgVkhxDI_XNxIqa_8Gl3JfFprM/edit?usp=sharing NHK Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko says a record 366 new cases of the coronavirus were confirmed in the Japanese capital on Thursday. Koike is urging Tokyo residents to refrain from going out as much as possible during the four-day weekend that began on Thursday. She is also asking people to act responsibly by protecting themselves and others.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YmkVwJ4DnBag2FjdHIgVkhxDI_XNxIqa_8Gl3JfFprM/edit?usp=sharing NHK Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko says a record 366 new cases of the coronavirus were confirmed in the Japanese capital on Thursday. Koike is urging Tokyo residents to refrain from going out as much as possible during the four-day weekend that began on Thursday. She is also asking people to act responsibly by protecting themselves and others.

https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html (For reviewers and updaters: Web archive services are unavailable in China, please archive this link when you see this) Ministry of Foreign Affairs Foreign nationals from most of the countries are denied permission to entry as of 24 July.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GmjH4TvkGmsfEcHOonDifd-6Jre0XvYAL9oWQa3LU8Y/edit?usp=sharing Japan Times. 26 July The Japanese government will ask the business community to ensure that each company has 70 percent or more employees work from home, economic revitalization minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said Sunday. The government will also call on businesses not to hold large-scale gatherings, including drinking parties, Nishimura, who is leading the government’s virus response effort, told a news conference. He said that the government will make the requests as coronavirus cases have been increasing across Japan. Nishimura said that the proportion of commuters once fell to 20 to 30 percent of previous levels but recently rose back to some 70 percent.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GmjH4TvkGmsfEcHOonDifd-6Jre0XvYAL9oWQa3LU8Y/edit?usp=sharing Japan Times. 26 July The Japanese government will ask the business community to ensure that each company has 70 percent or more employees work from home, economic revitalization minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said Sunday. The government will also call on businesses not to hold large-scale gatherings, including drinking parties, Nishimura, who is leading the government’s virus response effort, told a news conference. He said that the government will make the requests as coronavirus cases have been increasing across Japan. Nishimura said that the proportion of commuters once fell to 20 to 30 percent of previous levels but recently rose back to some 70 percent.

Most school have shortened their summer vacations to make up for the closed days and thus they are still open as of 10 aug. http://archive.fo/rm046

This is a tricky one, the govt is encouraging working from home, but it also does not want economic activity to slow down e.g. retail: "The aim is to prevent the spread of infections as much as possible while also keeping social and economic activity going," said Abe stating that there is no need for another state of emergency http://archive.fo/MYbfj

"This is a special summer. I want residents to avoid trips, going to their hometowns, going out at night or traveling far away,” Koike said at a news conference Thursday. "If the situation worsens, I will have no choice but to declare a state of emergency in Tokyo.” The advice conflicts with that of the national government, which has pointedly refrained from calling for curbs on traveling home for the holidays, even after virus cases hit daily records in many parts of the country. Osaka reported a record 225 infections on Thursday. "We are not asking for a blanket call on travel restrictions, nor are we giving a specific direction on whether people can or should not travel during the o-Bon period,” said Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga on Tuesday. http://archive.fo/5EiNx

No changes in policy since 24 July: http://archive.fo/7XTgO

Japan should be able to satisfy demand by 46 Prefectures for tests by the end of September. On the official govt policy on testing: there is no real requirement apart from being recommended from a health centre or a doctor. This policy dates back to 10 March, but it seems to be still applied as of 10 August: http://archive.fo/LvJhS

This health ministry document from May details Japan's approach to tracing which only targets big clusters of infections: http://archive.fo/jbCIq

Aichi prefecture reinstates regional state of emergency. "Gov. Hideaki Ohmura on Thursday asked businesses to close altogether or close early and urged people to stay home at night." As in April, recommendations are almost law de facto, but de jure the govt has no power to force people to close their businesses or to stay home. http://archive.fo/Ay30X

Aichi prefecture reinstates regional state of emergency. "Gov. Hideaki Ohmura on Thursday asked businesses to close altogether or close early and urged people to stay home at night." As in April, recommendations are almost law de facto, but de jure the govt has no power to force people to close their businesses or to stay home. http://archive.fo/Ay30X

"Many schools across the nation reopened Monday after summer vacations were shortened to allow students to catch up on classes missed when schools closed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic." https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/08/17/national/japan-schools-restart-coronavirus/

Abe does not want to issue another state of emergency as he wants businesses to stay open. Local govts such as Tokyo's still recommend closing and teleworking: "The capital is maintaining its alert at the highest of four levels, meaning "infections are spreading." It has requested establishments serving alcohol and karaoke venues to close by 10 p.m. through the end of the month to prevent further spread of the virus." https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/08/3bdb7c268b1c-tokyo-confirms-207-new-coronavirus-cases.html https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/07/asia/tokyo-coronavirus-fatigue-intl-hnk/index.html

No nation-wide state of emergency, many scaled back events are still going on around the country. Tokyo still at the highest level of alert, but no power to force the cancellation of events.

The govt has no constitutional power to actually set limits on gatherings.

Central govt wants the economy to resume fully, while Tokyo governor Koike urges people not to travel and to visit restaurants and red-light districts. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/15/national/tokyo-coronavirus-alert/#.Xz8euOieQ2w https://www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tosei/tosei/news/documents/20200615.pdf

Central govt wants the economy to resume fully, while Tokyo governor Koike urges people not to travel and to visit restaurants and red-light districts. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/15/national/tokyo-coronavirus-alert/#.Xz8euOieQ2w https://www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tosei/tosei/news/documents/20200615.pdf

Entry ban for citizen from 146 countries and territories: https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html

Still no sign of another economic package coming

The official website is not updated frequently, but has all the resources you need https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/newpage_00032.html

No change in policy

No new guidelines