Japan's State of Emergency

Following the increase in CoViD 19 cases especially in Tokyo, Prime Minister Abe declared a State of Emergency on April 7th putting Tokyo and six other Prefectures under stricter measures as determined by their governors. However, a lot of people in Aichi Prefecture are wondering why they were not included in the list. Aichi has a considerable number of cases as well and is the same with Kanagawa Prefecture which is now under state of emergency. 

Indeed, there is a reason behind Aichi, and others, not being included in the state of emergency but definitely questions are being raised and some may feel uncertain about going to work each day as usual.

Aichi and Neighboring Prefectures

People continue to go about their daily routine taking precautions and duly observing the request  of city officials to avoid going out unless urgent and necessary. As I have mentioned above, some feel uncertain and more anxious to go to work especially if they travel from one city to another. 

Yes, trains may almost be empty in the morning but it is full packed in the evening. That, my friend, is a great source of anxiety. Although schools in some prefectures, such as Gifu, are closed, the new school year was commenced at the beginning of this week with entrance ceremonies. Teachers have to continue reporting each day and so far they are doing very well at taking preventative measures.

My husband's train from Gifu traveling to Nagoya Sta. It is almost empty during this early hour but is definitely almost packed in the evening.

                                A usually busy and crowded street in Nagoya by this time of the evening.

Other factories are also closing down temporarily as some may not have the necessary materials needed. On the other hand, many are still operating normally but implementing stricter hygiene practice and social distancing.

And so...

As foreign residents being part of the Japanese community, all we can do during this time is to willingly comply and do our best to stay healthy and safe. Though we may feel as if the government is not doing a big move as drastic as other nations, we may as well just have to understand and do our part as law abiding residents of the country.