Japan restarting social, economic life in phases

Morning trains carrying commuters to Tokyo were busier than they have been in recent weeks.

A commuter said, "I think there is a difference between central Tokyo and other places, so I wonder if it is appropriate to lift the emergency all at once."

Another said that he feels anxious yet happy.

Mobile carrier NTT Docomo found that foot traffic in the business and commercial centers of Tokyo remained lighter on Monday than the weekday average in mid-February -- but it is still up from last week.

On Monday, Prime Minister Abe Shinzo declared the state of emergency over in the remaining five of the country's 47 prefectures. The final five were Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures, as well as Hokkaido in the north.

Despite the lifting of the emergency, Abe noted the risk of infection cannot be brought down to zero.

The government plans to reopen social and economic activities in phases.

Restrictions will be relaxed at approximately three-week intervals, with the government evaluating the extent of infection and the risk of the disease spreading in each region.

A zoo in Tokyo that had been temporarily closed reopened Tuesday with new rules in place. Visitors are asked to disinfect their hands and to wear a mask. The zoo says it will restrict admission to visitors if necessary.

Events such as concerts and exhibitions will be allowed to take place, with limits on the number of attendees that will be eased over time.

Karaoke parlors and gyms will be allowed to reopen on June 1, but they need to put measures in place such as controlling the number of patrons.

Live music venues and nightlife spots, such as hostess bars, are asked to remain closed for the time being as experts are studying infection prevention measures for them. They could reopen as early as June 19.

In total, more than 16,600 people have tested positive in Japan. Over 850 have lost their lives.