The coronavirus emergency was lifted in Osaka, Kyoto, Aichi, Gifu, Hyogo and Fukuoka on February 28, a week earlier than the scheduled March 7 date as new COVID infections decrease and strain on hospitals eases in the areas. Eateries will continue to be asked to close by 9 p.m., or by 10 p.m. to contain the coronavirus outbreak.

The emergency declaration will remain in effect in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba.