Introduction
Recently, Japan's prime minister Sanae Takaichi's comments have sparked a freeze in tourism from the Chinese mainland, rattling travel, business and cultural communities. With tourists from the Chinese mainland accounting for 42.5% of inbound visitors in 2024, the potential loss could reach 2.2 trillion yen (approx. $15.4B).
A Six-Week Shakeup
Takaichi, who took office in late October 2025, made an erroneous remark during a November press briefing. The fallout was swift: tour operators began pausing trips, and social media campaigns urged travelers to reconsider Japan as a destination.
Counting the Cost
In 2024, visitors from the Chinese mainland made up 42.5% of all foreign arrivals in Japan. Should cancellations persist, the tourism sector could lose up to 2.2 trillion yen in revenue—impacting hotels, restaurants and local guides nationwide.
Real-World Ripples
Local guesthouse owners from Hokkaido to Kyushu report spikes in cancellations. "We’ve seen a 30% drop in bookings since early December," says Yuko Tanaka, manager of a Yokohama ryokan. For digital nomads and business travelers, alternative routes through the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asia are gaining traction.
Looking Forward
As 2026 approaches, industry leaders call for diplomatic outreach to restore confidence. Upcoming G20 meetings and cultural exchanges are viewed as opportunities to mend ties with the Chinese mainland. For global travelers and entrepreneurs, the message is clear: understanding and dialogue are key to keeping borders—and economies—open.
Data at a Glance
- 42.5% share of visitors from the Chinese mainland in 2024
- 2.2 trillion yen potential loss
- Six weeks in office: Prime Minister Takaichi's tenure
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
