Japanese funfairs prepare for virus era

TOKYO: No screaming on the rollercoaster, socially distant spooks in the haunted house and please refrain from highfiving your favourite superhero: welcome to Japanese amusement parks in the coronavirus era.

As Japan’s funfairs slowly reopen, a group of park operators have released joint guidelines on how to operate safely under the threat of the virus.

Among the recommendations, thrill-seekers will be asked to wear masks at all times and ‘refrain from vocalising loudly’ on rollercoasters and other rides.

‘Ghosts’ lurking in haunted houses should maintain a healthy distance from their ‘victims’, the guidelines add.

Park staff, including those dressed up as stuffed animal mascots and superheroes, should not shake hands or high-five with young fans but maintain an appropriate distance.

“These guidelines will not bring infections to zero, but will reduce the risk of infection,” the operators admit, pledging to continue studying ways to bring down transmission risks. — AFP