Tokyo’s streets may be quieter than ever as residents adapt to Japan’s extended COVID-19 state of emergency. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced on February 2, 2021, that restrictions in 10 prefectures—including Tokyo and Osaka—will remain until March 7, while Tochigi Prefecture exits the list due to declining cases. 🏙️
New interviews with locals reveal raw emotions: \"I haven’t seen my closest friends in months,\" shared one 24-year-old office worker, echoing a common refrain. Many describe loneliness and burnout from remote work, but stress the need to prioritize safety. 💬
Key changes cited:
Dining out replaced with meal kits 🍱
Virtual hangouts instead of izakaya nights 🎮
Mixed feelings about vaccines: \"I’ll take it, but I want more data first\" 💉
While some criticize the government’s \"slow rollout\" of vaccines, others applaud expanded financial aid for businesses. As cherry blossom season approaches, Tokyoites cling to cautious optimism—and their masks. 🌸😷
