Besides Tokyo, the order covers Osaka and five other prefectures affected by the coronavirus pandemic – Chiba, Fukuoka, Hyogo, Kanagawa and Saitama.

The order will remain in place until 6 May, and falls over a peak travel and holiday season in Japan, including Golden Week.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Abe said the country had to change people’s behaviour to halt the spread of the virus.

Residents will be told to stay at home and leave only to complete essential tasks, such as grocery shopping and seeking medical care.

It comes after British Airways on Monday (6 April) confirmed it would halt all direct flights to Japan as of Wednesday (8 April) in anticipation of the order.

The Foreign Office updated its travel advice on Tuesday morning to reflect the new measures.

“On 7 April, the government of Japan declared a state of emergency in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Hyogo and Fukuoka prefectures. The state of emergency will last until 6 May.

“You should follow the instructions of the relevant local authority. Emergency measures will vary by locality, but are likely to include requests or directives for residents to stay at home, work from home, and avoid areas where infection is more likely.

“In addition, non-essential businesses may be closed, and emergency medical measures may be taken at short notice. Supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies and banks are likely to remain open.

“Subject to local guidelines, necessary journeys to purchase food, take exercise, seek medical care or for unavoidable work trips are still possible. Public transport should still operate.

“You should be prepared to explain to the authorities the reason for your journey and you must have your passport or residence card with you at all times. Those wishing to leave Japan should be able to travel to airports.

“The situation is changing rapidly and British nationals in Japan should continue to follow the advice of local authorities.”