Japan's government finalized plans for social security reforms on Monday. Officials hope the changes will make the system more balanced and beneficial across age groups.

Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide said, "Japan's population is aging rapidly with fewer children. We have a responsibility to pass on a social security system that limits the burden on working people and offers all generations peace of mind."

Holding a large festival may not be a wise idea during the coronavirus pandemic. But organizers of one of Japan's traditional festivals are test-staging the event, with ample social distancing.

The centuries' old Awa Odori dance festival in Tokushima City, western Japan, normally draws large crowds, eager to get a close view of a parade of energetic performers. The event was canceled this past summer, but organizers are hoping to stage the event next year.

Japan's minister in charge of affairs related to a group of islands known as the Northern Territories says the government plans to use social media to raise awareness among young people.

Russia controls the islands. Japan claims them. The government maintains they are an inherent part of Japan's territory, and were illegally occupied after World War Two.

A government panel of experts on Monday reaffirmed that the rate of newly confirmed coronavirus cases is on the decline in Japan, but that a resurgence could overwhelm medical systems. They agreed that it is desirable for the current restrictions to remain in place for the time being.

But the panel also worked out a set of proposals for what it calls "new social behavior" that should become new norms in regions where the spread of the virus appears to have been limited.