The Japanese government is set to decide on Thursday whether to lift a COVID-19 state of emergency in Tokyo, Hokkaido, Osaka and six other prefectures.

According to Kyodo News, eased restrictions could take effect on Sunday, in line with the declining rate of infections across the country as vaccinations ramp up ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, which are due to start on July 23.

But it's expected that Okinawa will remain under emergency curbs as hospitals in the area remain strained by a surge of coronavirus patients.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will make an announcement in the evening following a meeting with an expert panel.

If realized, all the affected areas will shift to a quasi-state of emergency until July 11 and the sale of alcohol will be allowed until 7 p.m., but restaurants will still be asked to close by 8 p.m.