21 April 2020
The original month-long state of emergency covering seven regions in Japan has now been expanded to all prefectures.
The move follows criticism of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s response to the pandemic.
Polls have shown people thought the PM left it too long before imposing the original state of emergency.
The state of emergency will be in effect until May 6.
All residents have been asked to stay at home although there are no penalties for people who do not comply.
Public transport is still operating.
The government is asking as many companies as possible to revert to home-working.
