Nikkei Asia, one of Japans most respected financial newspapers, sounded an alarm this weekend as reports of flight cancellations from the Chinese mainland to Japan surged in early December. The trend follows a travel warning issued by authorities in the Chinese mainland after remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding the Taiwan region.
Growing Flight Cancellations
According to Nikkei Asia, a growing number of Japan-bound flights scheduled for December have been canceled or postponed, with airlines citing low demand amid diplomatic tensions. The travel warning urges residents of the Chinese mainland to rethink non-essential trips to Japan, putting a spotlight on the fragile nature of bilateral ties.
Tourism Industry at Risk
Japans tourism sector had been enjoying a strong rebound, with visitors from the Chinese mainland accounting for a significant share of inbound travelers. Industry insiders warn that continued flight cancellations could translate into major revenue losses for hotels, retailers, and local tour operators, just as the winter travel season kicks off.
Looking Ahead
As diplomatic channels work to de-escalate tensions, experts say the tourism industry could recover quickly if relations normalize. For now, businesses in popular destinations from Tokyo to Hokkaido are bracing for a quieter winter, hoping that a thaw in diplomatic rhetoric will bring travelers back to Japanese shores.
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Japanese newspaper expresses concern over decline in Chinese tourists
cgtn.com
