Sources close to the Japanese government revealed that they are set to ease mask guidelines in public transport. Wearing of masks will only be mandated during rush hour and congested periods.
This policy shift comes after the government’s decision to downgrade COVID-19’s disease status. Students will also no longer be required to wear masks during school activities.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida alongside relevant ministers are still going to decide when these new guidelines will be mandated.
Japan has never had a strict mask mandate but it has become a custom during the past three years. When he took office in October 2021, Kishida said that the decision to wear a mask indoors or outdoors will be up to the individual.
These upcoming guidelines are meant to let people gauge whether it is time for them to wear a mask.