At present, Tokyo, Osaka and five other prefectures for which Abe declared a state of emergency over the surge in virus infections are subject to the request. The request made by Abe at a meeting on coronavirus countermeasures on the same day, however, is not legally binding. According to experts, nightclubs and hostess bars provide an environment ripe for infection as crowds are crammed into an enclosed space in close contact. In addition to nightclubs, Tokyo has also requested karaoke venues and internet cafes to suspend operations during the state of emergency. Prefectural governors have been calling for state compensation for businesses that may be asked to halt operations.

Source: Bangkok Post April 11, 2020 10:07 UTC