Tokyo, Osaka To Ease Alcohol Ban
In Japan, most prefectures currently under a state of emergency will see that end on Sunday. From next week, bars and restaurants in Tokyo and Osaka will be able to serve alcohol. But certain conditions will be in place as cases see a slight rise.
Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko said, "Considering the current severe infection situation in Tokyo, we will take strong measures based on the law."
Most parts of Tokyo will follow eased restrictions for another three weeks. Bars and restaurants will be allowed to serve alcohol until 7 p.m. to solo guests or groups of two for up to 90 minutes. They'll be asked to close by 8 p.m.
Tokyo confirmed 453 new cases on Friday.
It's the third straight day the figure is larger than the same day from the previous week.
Osaka is taking a similar route for wide parts of the prefecture.
Osaka Governor Yoshimura Hirofumi said, "It's difficult for eating and drinking establishments to stay in business without serving alcohol. I've listened to the views of many people, and made this tough decision."
He added if infections rise again, it is very likely bars and restaurants will be asked to stop serving alcohol.
Nationwide, officials on Friday confirmed more than 1,600 new cases and 48 deaths.
The number of patients with severe symptoms was 775, which is 12 more than the day before.