I was thinking a lot whether I should write this post or not, since the Corona Virus is not unique to Japan and it seems like everybody is going through a hard time, not only here but in many other countries too. Still, the change that Kyoto City has gone through in the last few weeks is staggering.
Therefore, in this post I wonโt write about my frustrations, the way my life has changed, and my philosophical thoughts. Iโm pretty sure youโve had enough of that ๐. Instead, Iโll just give you a glimpse to the city I live in โ Kyoto, and how it looks like these days.
This sign was welcoming costumers coming to COSTCO.
There was also an alcohol spray bottle for the usage of the costumers.
In the line to the registers there’s a mark on the floor indicating where you should stand. Keeping social distancing as much as possible.ย
Although they’re not forced to by law, Starbucks has closed all of its stores.ย
And many temples closed too, likeย Kennin-ji inย Gion.
Gion never looked so empty in the Sakura season.
Fushimi Inari has never been so empty.
Many hotels are closed for the first time as there are no overseas travelers nor domestic tourists.
The iconic Yasaka Street is empty in the middle of the day. Usually you’d have to get there at 5AM to see it like this.
And so does all the beautiful streets leading to Kiyomizudera.
This Jinrikishaย (Rickshaw carrier) ย is waiting for the tourists that will probably not come. He told us that on a regular day there are 40 Jinrikishas working in that area, but today there are only 5 of them who are still hopeful.
Most of the stores are closed, and many ofย those that do openย sell masks (regardless of what this store usually sells).
But if you’re patient enough – you might find some people giving away masks for free. We got some and it made us very happy!
In order to fight the Corona Virus, thereโs a nationwide state of emergency in Japan until the 31st of May (as of May 9th). This means that schools are closed and so does some businesses.
I really donโt know whatโs going to happen, but I hope it will all be over soon.
Pin the post if you like it:
No Comments