15 Dec 2022 | 08:15 PM UTC
Japan: Activists to continue staging protests in Tokyo and Sapporo through at least mid-December
Activists to stage protests in Tokyo and Sapporo, Japan, through mid-December. Increased security likely; transport disruptions possible.
Event
Activists plan to protest in Tokyo and Sapporo through at least mid-December to denounce the government's procurement of a "counterattack capability" and plans to increase defense spending. On Dec. 15, around 800 activists reportedly gathered outside the National Diet building in Tokyo in a related rally. Organizers have planned further demonstrations at the following times and locations:
Dec. 16: Prime minister's residence, Tokyo, beginning at 08:30.
Dec. 17: Higashi-Ikebukuro Central Park, Tokyo, starting at 14:00.
Dec. 18: Vicinity of Odori Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido, from 13:30 to 15:00.
Dec. 19: Vicinity of the National Diet, Tokyo, from 18:30.
Additional gatherings may occur in Tokyo, especially around Hibiya Park, the National Diet, and the Shinjuku area, as well as at other prominent public squares and landmarks. Larger gatherings may draw hundreds of participants. Heightened security measures are likely at gathering sites. While gatherings that materialize are likely to pass off peacefully, minor skirmishes between protesters and police are possible. Localized transport disruptions appear unlikely, but may occur if protesters occupy roads.
Advice
Exercise caution near sites where demonstrations materialize. Seek updated information on roads in protest-affected areas and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations; plan for possible localized transport disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
