Osaka Governor Yoshimura Speaks: "Gatherings of More Than Five People Are Subject to Self-Restriction, But Please Celebrate Special Occasions!"

2020.07.31 published

What about the request for self-restraint in Osaka? Is it applicable to weddings too?

Since July 28, around 200 infection cases have been reported in Osaka Prefecture.

In response to this, Governor Yoshimura requested a “self-restraint on gatherings and dining of five or more people” from August 1 to 20.

Following this news, there is a growing mood of self-restraint in society.

Many brides might be struggling with what to do about their planned weddings after this announcement.

Does this mean that weddings and receptions fall under the category of "gatherings and dining of five or more"?

Weddings are not subject to the self-restraint request!

While gatherings and dining of five or more are requested to be avoided, Governor Yoshimura has clearly stated that weddings and receptions are not included.

The background of this request for self-restraint is that many of the infected individuals were found to have contracted the virus during parties with groups of five or more.

The gatherings referred to here are boisterous occasions in izakayas or nightlife venues where saliva could easily be exchanged due to close proximity.

There is no scientific basis for the number five, but when gatherings exceed four at a table, voices inevitably get louder, increasing the risk of infection.

On the other hand, ceremonial events, such as weddings and funerals, are originally solemn occasions where boisterous celebrations do not occur.

If there is proper spacing between round tables in a spacious venue, it is said that this request for self-restraint does not apply.

Regarding celebrations, he has stated that there is no need for self-restraint and encourages people to proceed with them.

Although he has clearly stated in press conferences and television appearances that there is “no need for self-restraint” regarding weddings…

Not everyone in the public can access all information, so there is a possibility that holding a wedding might lead to criticism, such as “how rude to ignore the request for self-restraint.”

There is no definitive answer regarding the appropriateness of holding weddings, but it is incorrect to say “there was a request to self-restrain weddings.”

You are not acting against the rules.

Below is a transcript of Governor Yoshimura's comments regarding weddings from his press conference and media appearances.

Press Conference by Governor Yoshimura on July 28, 2020

~Q&A~

From a reporter:

Does the request for gatherings of five or more include home parties among friends and dining for ceremonial events?

Governor Yoshimura's response (around 12:20):

“Gatherings of five or more is just one standard, and I can't refer to individual cases. However, if dining is minimal, it's not that gatherings of five or more are prohibited as long as masks are worn.

The image is of drinking parties or gatherings carried out by groups in cramped spaces, which are conducive to the spread of infection.

However, I believe that standing parties with a limited number of attendees in large spaces, while being cautious, do not apply to this request.

Regarding ceremonial events, if wedding receptions exhibit proper distance between tables and do not involve loud celebrations, they likely do not apply as well.

Each individual must make their own judgment regarding the risks.

This request refers to avoiding situations where groups are enjoying themselves boisterously, like a drinking party.

Whether it applies or not is left to individual judgment, but I believe wedding receptions do not fall under this.

Governor Yoshimura's Appearance on News Runner on July 29, 2020

Question:

“My daughter is getting married in August. Since gatherings and dining of five or more have been requested to be avoided, I don't know what to do. Postponing or canceling would incur high costs.”

Governor Yoshimura's response:

Since there is proper space between tables, and it is not a boisterous gathering, it does not fall under the current request for self-restraint.

I would like you to refrain from situations that involve close contact and exchanging saliva in small spaces. Weddings and ceremonial events are not such occasions.

I encourage celebrations while being cautious and taking care.

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An announcement for brides who are "holding a wedding!"*

During this time, I believe guests will come wearing masks, but they will have to take them off when the meal starts at the reception.

It doesn’t seem hygienic to just leave the mask on the table, and it could get mixed up with others, so it would be kind to prepare a “mask case” for each guest.*

We have created original mask cases at marry, and we hope you can make use of them! ♡

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