China warns citizens against Japan visits during Lunar New Year
China has warned its citizens not to travel to Japan during the Lunar New Year holiday, citing safety concerns and rising political tensions. The warning comes as Beijing remains angry over comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan earlier this year.
China’s foreign ministry said there has been an increase in crimes targeting Chinese nationals in Japan and also mentioned the risk of earthquakes. According to the statement, Chinese citizens could face serious security threats while visiting Japan.
Tensions increased after Takaichi suggested in November that Japan might respond militarily if China attacked Taiwan. Beijing strongly criticized the remarks and responded with export restrictions, flight cancellations, and harsh media coverage. China’s defense ministry also warned Japan against any military involvement.
As a result, major Chinese airlines have extended free cancellation and change policies for flights to Japan. Tourism from China to Japan dropped sharply in December, even though Japan overall recorded a record number of foreign visitors.
While discouraging travel to Japan, China has promoted tourism with South Korea. Visa-free travel has led to rising visitor numbers between the two countries, which Chinese media describe as a sign of improving economic and diplomatic ties.
Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/01/27/japan/china-japan-travel-warning-lunar/ |
