In Japan, since March 13, 2023, the government has not imposed a uniform rule on the wearing of masks, but rather has respected the independent choice of individuals and left the wearing of masks to their own judgment. However, the government recommends the wearing of masks as a measure to prevent infection when visiting a doctor, a medical institution, or a facility for the elderly, or when riding crowded trains or buses during rush hours.
In addition, it is permissible for businesses to require customers to wear masks to prevent infection or for other operational purposes, so there may be cases where customers are required to wear masks in stores, etc., or where employees are wearing masks.
Wearing masks is a matter of individual judgment, but to prevent the spread of COVID-19 it is important to continue to avoid the 3 Cs (closed spaces, crowded places, close-contact settings), practice social distancing, the washing of hands, and adequate ventilation.
