In light of ongoing diplomatic tensions, Chinese tourists are increasingly avoiding Japan, causing the country to drop out of the top ten destinations for those traveling abroad during the lunar new year. This shift is notable given Japan’s traditional popularity among Chinese travelers.
Since late last year, there has been a significant decrease in the number of Chinese visitors to Japan, greatly influenced by a diplomatic dispute regarding Taiwan’s security, which continues to strain relations between Tokyo and Beijing.
According to Japan’s transport ministry, the influx of Chinese tourists to Japan, which earlier benefited from a weakened currency driving tourism, nearly halved in December compared to the same period in 2025.
The decline in visitors shows no signs of reversing, following remarks from Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, suggesting that the country’s Self-Defense Forces might be deployed in response to a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
China asserts that Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, is part of its territory and has pledged to achieve reunification, employing military force if required.
Takaichi’s comments drew a sharp backlash in China, with officials warning students and travelers against visiting Japan amid escalating tensions due to the ongoing dispute.
As a result, South Korea is predicted to emerge as the favored overseas destination for Chinese travelers during the 40-day travel season, with approximately 250,000 visitors anticipated—an increase of 1.5 times compared to the prior year.
Japan is likely to receive fewer visitors from China than from other neighboring countries, including Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Russia. Reports indicate that the number of Chinese tourists visiting Japan during the lunar new year holiday could drop by up to 60% compared to the previous year.
Tensions over Taiwan have escalated since Takaichi’s statement in November, where she indicated military action could be considered if a crisis in the Taiwan Strait posed an “existential” threat to Japan.
Her steadfastness on the issue has resulted in heightened criticism from China, including comments from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who condemned Takaichi’s stance as an attempt to rekindle Japan’s militarist past.
Wang spoke at the Munich Security Conference on Monday, asserting: “Japanese people should no longer allow themselves to be manipulated or deceived by those far-right forces, or by those who seek to revive militarism.”
He further warned, “All peace-loving countries should send a clear warning to Japan: if it chooses to walk back on this path, it will only be heading toward self-destruction.”
In response, Japan filed a diplomatic protest, with its foreign ministry labeling Wang’s statements as “factually incorrect and ungrounded.”
The ministry asserted, “Japan’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities are in response to an increasingly severe security environment and are not directed against any specific third country.”
It also pointed to other nations rapidly enhancing their military capabilities in a non-transparent manner, reinforcing that Japan opposes such actions.
Liu Xiaoming, China’s special representative on Korean peninsula affairs, intensified rhetoric by asserting that Takaichi’s comments reflect Japan’s “unextinguished ambition to invade and colonise Taiwan once again.”
In a post on X alluding to Japan’s 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, Liu remarked, “The lessons of history are not far away and must be heeded. If Japan refuses to repent and change its ways, it will inevitably repeat the same tragic mistakes.”
Beijing officials have continually warned travelers about possible safety threats in Japan, though no incidents involving tourists from China have been reported.
Most recently, the Chinese consulate general in Osaka reiterated warnings for nationals to avoid traveling to Japan following a fatal stabbing incident. This tragic event, occurring in a popular tourist area, did not involve Chinese citizens.
Despite the official warnings, some travelers have chosen to disregard the advice. One traveler remarked to the Kyodo news agency that fostering goodwill between the people of both nations is essential. Another individual from Shanghai expressed plans to visit Japan with her family, stating, “The travel alert is aimed at promoting criticism of Japan. But my family has not been brainwashed.”
With Reuters
Key Takeaways
- Chinese tourism to Japan has significantly declined due to ongoing diplomatic tensions.
- Japan has fallen out of the top ten destinations for Chinese travelers during lunar new year.
- South Korea is expected to be the most popular overseas destination for Chinese tourists this year.
- The number of Chinese visitors to Japan could drop by up to 60% compared to last year.
- Japan’s government continues to reinforce its defense policies amidst escalating tensions with China.
FAQ
What is causing the decline in Chinese tourism to Japan?
The decline is primarily due to diplomatic tensions between Japan and China, particularly concerning Taiwan’s security.
How much has Chinese tourism decreased in recent months?
Reports indicate that Chinese tourist numbers visiting Japan nearly halved in December compared to the previous year.
Which country is expected to attract the most Chinese tourists this year?
South Korea is projected to be the most favored overseas destination for Chinese travelers during the 40-day travel period.
