Why is Japan unable or unwilling to unmask?

Despite a need for balance, society sticks to habit amid COVID-19

20221123 Japan mask

Many people in Japan wear masks outdoors, even as many other countries have moved away from the coverings. (Photo by Tetsuya Kitayama)

HISAHIKO YANO, Nikkei senior staff writer

TOKYO -- The day that Japanese society will finally rid itself of the mask has once again become elusive.

Not only has Japan entered its eighth wave of COVID-19 infections, according to experts, but the annual flu season is expected to coincide with it.

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