The Japanese government plans to ease COVID-19 restrictions on travel, large-scale events and the serving of alcohol around November, when most people are expected to be fully vaccinated, Kyodo news agency reported on Wednesday, citing government sources.

The easing of restrictions will even be implemented in areas under a COVID-19 state of emergency if certain conditions such as vaccination are met, the sources told Kyodo.

The country will decide Thursday on extension of the state of emergency in Tokyo and other metropolitan areas.

Twenty-one of Japan's 47 prefectures are currently under the state of emergency, which is due to expire on Sunday.