While protests against the obligation to wear face masks during the corona pandemic took place in many European countries, demonstrations against face masks in Japan were not an issue. The Japanese consistently wear face masks both indoors and out, even though there was no legal requirement, just a recommendation. The latter have now been abolished in most public areas – this is unlikely to change the habits of the Japanese.
Laws to wear a face mask during the pandemic were not necessary in Japan. Hygiene has always been of paramount importance to the islanders. Like bowing instead of shaking hands or taking off your shoes before entering. Talking loudly on trains, which are chronically overcrowded in Japan’s megacities such as Tokyo, has always been considered rude.
Mask is often only worn in the car
Wearing a face mask if you have a cold, for example, so as not to infect others, was already common practice before the corona pandemic. Therefore, it is expected that the country’s citizens will continue their previous practice of wearing masks everywhere – often even only in the car – for the time being. However, as of Monday, there has been no explicit recommendation from the state. According to the new guidelines, face masks only have to be worn in medical institutions, nursing homes and on busy public transport.
Under the new guidelines, the state continues to advise the public that masks protect people at higher risk of serious illness, including the elderly. However, airlines and public transport will no longer ask their customers to wear a face mask. The same applies to operators of large supermarket chains and convenience stores.
Face masks are no longer mandatory in schools either
Schools also no longer have to wear face masks from April 1, the start of the new school year. However, it is expected that customers will still be asked to wear masks at hairdressers, beauty salons and other services where distance is close.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
