Japan is beginning to open theme parks and attractions, as well as businesses and schools, after COVID-19 resulted in closures through February and March 2020.
According to Nikkei Asian Review, businesses and schools are gradually reopening following the shutdown in response to COVID-19.
The Dutch-themed resort Huis Ten Bosch reopened on March 16. However, visitors are asked to wear masks and only outdoor attractions are open.
“From the point of view of prevention, staying at home is desirable, but it has to be taken into consideration what its effect will be on the economy and people’s lives,” said Jiro Yasuda, professor of virology at Nagasaki University.
“It will have a devastating effect on the economy.”
Huis Ten Bosch theme park reopened March 16
“The regional economies tend to depend on tourism,” said Takumi Fujinami, an analyst at the Japan Research Institute.
“They cannot afford to keep businesses grounded for too long,” added Fujinami. “They want to see shops reopened where possible.”
According to Mitsuhiro Harada, an analyst at credit research company Tokyo Shoko Research, companies in the entertainment sector are likely to experience difficulty after two to three months without business.
Legoland Japan will reopen some popular outdoor attractions from today (March 23), with shorter business hours, temperature checks and staff wearing masks.
Outdoor attractions reopen at Legoland Japan
本日、レゴランド・ジャパンおよびシーライフ名古屋の営業を再開いたしました。
一部内容を変更しての営業となりますが、少しでも皆さんに楽しい時間を提供できるよう、スタッフ一同細心の注意を払い運営してまいります。#レゴランド #アイラブレゴランド pic.twitter.com/OlDcpTVTYz— レゴランド・ジャパン・リゾート【公式】 (@LEGOLAND_Japan) March 23, 2020
The theme park wrote on Twitter: “Today, Legoland Japan and Sea Life Nagoya have reopened. Although the business will be partially modified, we will operate with the utmost care of all staff so that we can provide you with a little fun.”
In addition, the Moominvalley theme park in Saitama resumed operations on March 14. Guests must have their temperatures checked and are denied entry if they have a fever.
The GrinPa Amusement Park reopened its outdoor attractions on March 9, though indoor entertainment destinations are also reopening in Japan.
Cinema operator Aeon Entertainment reopened certain theatres on March 16. Bandai Namco, which operates game arcades across Japan, also resumed operations on March 16.
