Heavy security restrictions go into effect in Osaka this week for the Group of 20 leaders' summit, with 32,000 police officers in the streets and officials warning visitors and residents of traffic delays, sealed trash cans and lockers in train stations, and restrictions on movement around major hotels.
The unprecedented measures for the summit, which is expected to draw 30,000 people, have prompted requests from the Osaka Municipal Government for residents to avoid using their cars and to avoid going out for unnecessary reasons during the event due to the expected impact of traffic restrictions.
Nearly 700 Osaka municipal and prefectural schools will be closed on Thursday and Friday, and many school activities on Saturday were canceled due to the security. Many shops and smaller businesses in nine designated security areas (see map) are also likely to voluntarily shut down during the summit period. Some parts of Osaka Castle Park, where the Osaka State Guest House is located and where leaders are likely to gather at some point, will also be closed between June 25 and 29.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.