Free coronavirus tests available at 5 major stations in Tokyo through May 8

The Yomiuri Shimbun

14:34 JST, April 29, 2022

Free tests for the novel coronavirus are available at temporary testing sites near five major JR stations in Tokyo through May 8.

The testing facilities opened Thursday, ahead of the Golden Week holiday that started Friday, near Tokyo, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku and Shinagawa stations.

People wishing to get tested need to make a reservation for a slot between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The test result is available in 15 to 30 minutes.

The Tokyo metropolitan government is making an appeal to people to use the facilities before traveling to hometowns or holiday destinations.

“I came because I’ll be taking a trip to Kyoto during the holiday week with an elderly colleague,” said a 52-year-old man from Katsushika Ward at the testing site near Ueno Station. “I’m relieved I’ve tested negative.”

The central government intends to set up such facilities at about 100 places across the country, including at train stations and airports.