The New Year's general public touring at the Imperial Palace will not be held next year to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
At the Imperial Palace, general public visits are held every year on New Year's Day 2 and the Emperor's Birthday, but none of them were held due to the influence of the new coronavirus.
The Imperial Household Agency has decided not to carry out the New Year's general public visit at the beginning of the year, considering that many people will be crowded at the baggage inspection and the venue of the visit.
This year, as an alternative to the general public touring, the video message of His Majesty the Emperor's New Year was released on New Year's Day, but the Imperial Household Agency is considering whether to take the same measures next year.
On the other hand, for New Year's events other than general public visits, such as the "Utakai Hajime" held at the Imperial Palace and Palace in January every year, adjustments are being made so far to implement thorough infection control measures.