Japan’s Mask Prohibitions Have Been Lifted with A Few Exceptions

Japan has already relaxed its mask-wearing regulations, allowing for mask-free parliamentary speeches and allowing schools to choose whether to require them at commencement ceremonies. The government started giving people more freedom to choose whether or not to wear a mask. Yet, this does not mean that everyone can remove their masks in all circumstances.

The government’s decision, which was made public on February 10, came with a warning that businesses may still urge clients or staff members to wear masks in order to avoid diseases or for other business-related reasons. It also suggests that people bring masks with them in case they need them.

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Hirokazu Matsuno, the chief government spokesman, announced that masks won’t be necessary at cabinet meetings and that decisions over the coverings will be left up to individual businesses. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike asked people to wear masks when they go outside and to exercise flexibility even when the rules are loosened.

The government continues to advise citizens to wear masks when visiting hospitals even after the unified mask instruction has ended in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection for elderly people and other vulnerable groups. The government also recommends wearing a mask when traveling on crowded buses and trains even though some operators have said they will allow passengers to make that decision.

Source: Japan Times, SCMP