Japan reopens for business, pinning hopes on tracing app

Despite risks of new outbreak, domestic travel resumes; bars back in action

20200619 Bus terminal in Tokyo

 A bus passenger has his temperature checked in Tokyo on June 19: The previous day the Japanese government announced the lifting of all travel restrictions. (Photo by Kei Higuchi) 

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Once again, the domestic terminal of Tokyo's Haneda Airport was crowded with travelers Friday, after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe declared an end to all restrictions on domestic travel the previous day.

The resumption of domestic travel is part of a full reopening of the economy that started on Friday, including allowing bars and nightclubs -- previously hotspots for the novel coronavirus -- to welcome customers. The government must now try to strike a balance between firing up the economy and keeping the virus under control. 

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