City authorities, which cannot legally force closures, offer incentives after Japan capital reports a record 224 new cases
Nightclubs and hostess bars in Tokyo are to be paid to close after the Japanese capital recorded 224 coronavirus cases on Thursday, the highest daily tally since the pandemic began.
Authorities had previously refused to give nightlife businesses economic support during the pandemic, but have changed tack after 80% of Thursday’s infections were among people in their 20s and 30s. Many of them were identified after more than 3,000 tests were carried out in Tokyo entertainment districts, including Shinjuku and Ikebukuro.
Related: 'Keep your screams inside': rollercoaster fans told to be quiet to help Japan Covid-19 fight
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