Examining the changes in the transitions and characteristics of populations in Nagoya City after COVID-19

Abstract

This study uses “Mobile Kukan Toukei™” (Mobile Spatial Statistics) to examine the impact of COVID-19 on the transitions and characteristics of population in Nagoya City. Mobile Kukan Toukei comprises statistical population data created using the operational data from mobile phone networks. Comparison of the data before and after the COVID-19 outbreak showed that the impact was remarkable in many areas in April 2020. Notably, urban areas such as Nagoya Station and Sakae showed relatively more robust recovery both on weekdays and holidays. However, several tourist areas did not bounce back on holidays, despite the Japanese government’s “GoTo” campaign. More visitors are perhaps coming from closer regions than distant ones as people’s attempt to minimize the risk of being infected.