The Japanese government is set to announce big changes to Coronavirus restrictions in the country which will include the removal of caps on theme park attendance that have been in play since July 2020.

Theme Park Increased Capacity

Update 28 November 2021: Chiba Prefecture (in which Tokyo Disney Resort resides) has announced that from 25 November 2021, events and theme parks are permitted to operate at 100% capacity. It is expected that additional park tickets will be made available shortly, making it easier to access the parks.

Under current pandemic guidelines, attendance at theme parks in Japan has been capped at 50%, or 5,000 people, whichever is higher. In response to the increasing vaccination rate and a decrease in severe COVID-19 cases, the Japanese government is now set to announce the relaxing restrictions that were imposed under the emergency declaration.

The government is planning on implementing a ‘vaccine-test package’, which will change the way that residents will be able to dine out, attend sports games and attend large events and theme parks. The package will require individuals to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test upon entry of venues.

With an infection prevention plan in place, admission of up to 10,000 people will be allowed while under a state of emergency. This increases to 20,000 guests under a quasi-state of emergency. Event operators may fill a venue to capacity if an infection plan is in place, regardless of emergency declarations.

The changes will allow bars and restaurants with venues being allowed to open until 9 pm and serve alcohol. Businesses will be directed to register with prefectural governments to implement the package.

Since October, demonstrations of the new infection prevention plan have been carried out at major events including sports matches and live music which have proved to be successful. Tokyo Disney Resort has recently announced they’ll offer a special park ticket for guests who can provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

A hearing with Coronavirus experts is set to take place around the 19th of November to discuss the rollout of these changes. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Sources: Kyodo News, Chiba Prefecture