Everyone is aware of the devastating coronavirus, which began in late 2019 and spread rapidly over the world by March 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic affected a vast number of individuals worldwide, resulting in diseases and deaths. However, later in 2023 coronavirus cases particularly in Japan began to decline prompting the government to declare mask-wearing regulations and border restrictions to be lifted. Furthermore, a certificate of negative COVID-19 test results and evidence of vaccination are no longer required for any visitor arriving in Japan.

Additionally, the total number of foreign arrivals aside from residents returning rose to about 25.83 million, over six times the number that had occurred the year before.

Effects on Population of Coronavirus in Japan

A couple of years ago the fact that Japan had seen a decline in foreigners entering Japan was a given - the borders would eventually be closed down, or at least getting in was a hassle. This was the case with many countries worldwide.

Not only did the number of foreigners leaving Japan surpass those entering it, but the number of Japanese also decreased, according to the data. However, that was not the only reason for the decline in the Japanese population. It also includes deaths of the elderly, which has been an ongoing trend for years, besides mentioning the cases and deaths from coronavirus to date.

Coronavirus Cases in Japan: 33.8 Million

Deaths in Japan: 74,000

Japan During COVID

During the coronavirus pandemic, Japan implemented strict border controls and travel restrictions. First and foremost, they imposed entry bans on several countries with those at risk of high infection. For those with limited eligibility to enter the country, they implemented tight quarantine measures upon arrival. The issuance of visas was also suspended, but as of 2023, these bans have been lifted. For those entering, proof of vaccination is also no longer required.

Population of Tokyo, Post-pandemic

On the brighter side of things, despite the rough times worldwide, and in Tokyo, as of present, in terms of population, the Nation’s capital has made a clear recovery. As of last year, the number of people entering Tokyo has officially passed the number of people leaving. The total number of foreign arrivals aside from residents returning rose to about 25.83 million, over six times the number that had occurred the year before.

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the increase in Tokyo’s population is due to the economy improving since COVID-19, and students moving into the city for college or work.

Thoughts on Population Recovery in Tokyo

While the COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly had significant impacts on population dynamics in Tokyo and Japan as a whole, the recent surge in arrivals suggests a promising recovery and a return to pre-pandemic levels of population growth. With continued efforts to manage the ongoing challenges of the pandemic and support economic recovery, Tokyo remains a vibrant and dynamic city that continues to attract residents from all over the world. As Japan looks towards the future, maintaining a balance between public health priorities and socio-economic development will be essential for ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity.

As a reader of Guidable, how does the rise in the population make you feel? On the one hand, people moving into Tokyo are a sign that the economy is recovering. On the flip side of things, as of present, Japan still has a terrible exchange rate. This may look attractive for tourists, but for those looking to stay in Japan long-term and are job hunting, it wouldn’t be surprising if you had a mixed bag of feelings.