The Ajinomoto National Training Center (NTC) in Kita Ward, Tokyo, and the adjoining Japan Institute of Sports Sciences Center (JISS) shut down on Wednesday and will be closed through May 6 due to the declaration of a state of emergency.
Both the Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Ministry and the Japan Sport Council (JSC) have assumed management and operations of the facility, the main training location for many top athletes aiming to compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
"Our hope is to protect the athletes' workout environment as best we can, but we also have to take a broad view of the health of all citizens," an official said.
Athletes and staff members were notified that the gymnasium would be closed for gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and trampoline, starting Wednesday, according to a number of competition officials.
Officials said those staying at the adjoining housing facility would be required to leave.
Swimmers were asked to complete their activities at the pool by Wednesday morning.
Amid the spread of the new coronavirus, team competitions continue to be called off as athletes have worked out individually, or used facilities only with their own team.
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