It was more of a softer lockdown and largerly enforced by society rather than any heavy government influence. The government here is very reluctant for further lockdowns despite cases rising, they are very concious of the effect it will have on the economy.
Japan reacted faster to what was happening, around february and started their lockdown a good month before Europe. I believe the virus became too estabished in Europe to effectively control it.
I find it baffling that people are arguing about face masks and have already started travelling for holidays in Spain.
