Japan on Wednesday reported 2,189 new COVID-19 cases, renewing a record number of daily infections and exceeding the 2,000 mark for the first time, according to the latest figures from the health ministry and local authorities.

The death toll in Japan from the pneumonia-causing virus currently stands at 1,945, with 12 new fatalities announced Wednesday. The death toll includes 13 from the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

In Tokyo, the epicenter of Japan's outbreak, a record-high of 493 new cases were reported on Wednesday, with the capital's cumulative total reaching 35,722, the highest among the country's 47 prefectures.

As the number of new confirmed cases has continued to rise in the capital, the Tokyo metropolitan government is planning to raise its virus alert to the highest level, according to government sources.