In Osaka, where a state of emergency has been declared, there are few people in the downtown area and it is quiet.
In response to the state of emergency, many large commercial facilities such as department stores and underground malls are closed from the 25th, except for some sales floors such as groceries.
Umeda, a downtown area of Osaka that is usually visited by many shoppers, is quiet on the 25th with little traffic.
A female university student from Hyogo Prefecture said, "I came to Osaka with the guidance of the university. I feel that there is little traffic. I have a desire to enjoy shopping, but I can't help it."
Also, in the underground shopping mall, which houses about 180 tenants, all stores have been closed since the 25th, and people heading to stations such as the subway were passing by quickly.
A 20-year-old woman who commute from Hyogo said, "I go through every day, but there are few people compared to usual. I have no choice but to come because of my work, but I am worried about infection."
Supermarket is open as usual
Supermarkets that are not subject to the leave request are open as usual.
The supermarket "Konomiya Midoribashi" in Higashinari-ku, Osaka is open from 9 am on the 25th.
In response to the state of emergency, the store expects more people to eat at home, and is increasing its inventory of long-lasting pasta and frozen foods more than usual.
According to the store, the number of customers is a little larger than on Sundays, but so far there has been no noticeable hoarding.
A man in his 70s who visited for shopping said, "I'm thinking of reducing the number of shopping to reduce contact with people. Today I bought food that will last for a long time."
In addition, a woman in her 50s said, "I stocked up instant foods when I declared the first emergency, but this time I want to act calmly."
Kazuhiro Ota, the store manager, said, "We are increasing inventory, so please feel free to shop. We want you to avoid lunch and before dinner so that you do not get crowded."