Ever booked that dream Tokyo trip and then hit cancel? That’s exactly what’s happening this week as tourism pros in Japan watch visitor numbers from the Chinese mainland plunge. Fresh off Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments on the Taiwan question, diplomatic vibes have shifted, and travelers are rethinking their plans. 📉✈️
On Sunday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Chinese mainland advised citizens to avoid traveling to Japan, citing security concerns. Airlines from the Chinese mainland—including Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Hainan, Sichuan and Xiamen—announced free refunds or changes for tickets to Japan dated before December 31. As of November 17, many travel agencies reported a wave of group tour cancellations.
For Japan’s tourism industry—known for its neon-lit streets, kawaii culture and mouthwatering sushi—this dip feels like a sudden plot twist. While experts say this might be temporary, local businesses from Tokyo to Kyoto are already brainstorming ways to win back visitors. Could special promotions, cultural festivals or pop-up events tip the scale back in favor of Japan? Only time will tell, but right now, the industry is in full crisis mode, hustling to keep its global appeal alive. 🌸🏯
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Drop in visitor numbers from China a major concern for Japan's tourism
cgtn.com
