Gov't readies 'state of emergency' coronavirus measures

They should've done this in early February in the least.

Under the new law, once the prime minister declares a state of emergency in a specific part of the country, local governments can require residents to stay indoors, close schools and limit the use of facilities in which large numbers of people gather.

That's a nice touch, separating these two roles. Probably a sop to people worrying about overcentralization of power.

Will not work. Japan simply don't have the political and cultural environment for a successful mitigation strategy to slow down spread like China or South Korea.

1 It is unlikely Japanese would ever invoke this emergency power, as it would essentially mean the Olympics would not happen this year. 2 Even if it is enacted, many Japanese will simply ignore the order. It would be impossible for the Japanese government to try to keep people from going to work, stay at home, etc. When rules go against culture, it simply won't be followed. Just look at Japanese government's attempt to stop people from walking up the escalators. My company announced rules 2 weeks ago saying that people who are sick should not go to work, but people are coughing all around, and even bragging about how they have a fever and still coming to office.

Bad news if this actio happen.

State of Emergency in Japan means giving small businesses more money.

The 'state of emergency' means that Japanese people should be ready to sacrifice themselves for the nation. This is a unique Japanese tradition and culture, although a few people consider it fascistic.

With their numbers, Why is this action needed ???.