Japan's travel industry is rattled as visitor numbers from the Chinese mainland have plummeted, following diplomatic tensions over remarks from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the Taiwan question.
On Sunday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Chinese mainland advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Japan, citing security concerns. Major airlines—including Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and Xiamen Airlines—announced that tickets for journeys to Japan through December 31, 2025, can be refunded or rescheduled at no extra cost.
As of November 17, 2025, travel agencies report a surge of cancellations for group tours, marking a sharp contrast to the steady recovery Japan's tourism sector has seen this year. Industry insiders warn that continued declines could affect local businesses, hotel occupancy rates, and seasonal events across key destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
For young travelers and digital nomads eyeing immersive experiences—from cherry-blossom cruises along the Inland Sea to Tokyo’s cutting-edge startup scene—shifting flight policies and advisories add a layer of uncertainty. Entrepreneurs and hospitality startups are monitoring the trend closely, exploring flexible booking solutions and targeted promotions to weather the downturn.
Looking ahead, experts emphasize diplomatic dialogue and cultural exchanges as vital to restoring confidence among prospective visitors. As Japan’s tourism industry seeks innovative ways to engage a global audience, close attention will focus on potential diplomatic developments and consumer sentiment on the ground.
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Drop in visitor numbers from China a major concern for Japan's tourism
cgtn.com
