What: A new state of emergency has been declared for Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo due to a resurgence of Covid.

Why is it important: Sales areas providing daily necessities can be open for business, but the definition of this term remains very unclear, prompting different responses among companies.

For instance, Tobu’s Ikebukuro flagship in Tokyo will operate only a few sections, such as groceries, beauty salon and sections selling glasses and hearing aid devices. Isetan Mitsukoshi continues to operate some restaurants and cosmetics sections. In addition to cosmetics, Daimaru Matsuzakaya will keep open the women’s handkerchief and sock sections during the state of emergency. Takashimaya is operating only the food floors at its Osaka and Kyoto stores, but its Tokyo outlets are operating cosmetics sections.

In Japan, stores are closing again