As of May 8th 2023, the legal status of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed. However, the virus is not expected to disappear or instantly change how it affects our health. Thus, as a city of cultural tourism visited by people from all over Japan and the world, Kyoto will continue to provide wonder, discovery, and hospitality while ensuring the peace of mind and safety of its residents, tourists, and those who work in its tourism industry.

The decision to take basic countermeasures against COVID is now basically up to each individual. Nevertheless, attention to the hygiene of your hands and wearing masks in certain situations are regarded as effective in preventing the spread of the virus. Therefore, wWe ask for your understanding in taking measures to avoid infecting others.

• Basic COVID-19 countermeasures, including: washing your hands frequently, using hand sanitizers, and wearing a mask when necessary, are still effective.
  
• Avoiding crowded places and hours when possible is still relevant as a counter-disease measure. Also, wearing a mask is effective when you cannot avoid boarding crowded buses and trains.
• Based on the decisions of individual businesses or organizations, you may be asked to  practice hygiene by wearing a mask and washing or sanitizing your hands.

Tips for a Safe Trip（JNTO）
https://www.japan.travel/en/practical-coronavirus-information/tips-for-a-safe-trip/

•  If you wish to receive medical consultation due to symptoms associated with COVID-19, please consult to a nearby medical institution or MHLW’s
  telephone consultation services at your own decision.

Hospital with Foreign Language Spoken Doctors (Kyoto City)

※When visiting a medical institution, please make sure to wear a mask.

• In order to enjoy your trip with peace of mind, please avoid going to places at times when they are crowded as much as possible. There are many points of interest in Kyoto that are relatively less famous but still worth visiting, or that can be enjoyed in early morning or night when there are less people.

Airing of live camera feed to check congestion levels around tourist destinations

The Kyoto City Tourism Association shares live camera feed of popular tourist areas with predictions of how pleasant each place would be to visit at each time of the day.

Kyoto City Tourism Association YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/c/DMOKYOTO

COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan（JNTO）
https://www.japan.travel/en/practical-coronavirus-information/

About COVID-19 (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000164708_00079.html