All About Japan

Preparations Underway for Olympic Torch Relay

Sports 2020 Olympics

Organizers of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics have publicized guidelines for the torch relay that will start in Japan on March 25. According to Seiko Hashimoto, Tokyo 2020 President, "It's very important that we thoroughly take prevention measures, and that we prioritize safety."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSMeWJH2_Mc

Spectators will be allowed to watch the relay, but with their masks on. They can show support, but by applauding instead of shouting. Viewers will also be asked to avoid crowds and to watch the flame near their home. Torchbearers will be required to refrain from dining with other people or going out for two weeks before they run. Organizers added the relay may be suspended in case there is overcrowding.

The event is slated to kick off on March 25 in Fukushima Prefecture, which was devastated by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. One Fukushima Prefecture representative told NTV24, "We want the relay to tell people about the current situation in the disaster-affected areas," adding that they will verify coronavirus measures to ensure safety and security.

Tokyo Olympic organizers plan to provide a direction on the maximum number of Games spectators around March 25.