A diplomatic dispute triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks on China has led to a dramatic decline in travel bookings from the Chinese mainland to Japan, with industry data revealing over 540,000 flight cancellations since November 15, 2025.
Chinese travel agencies have suspended most group tour packages for November and December this year, while refund requests continue to surge. A Tokyo-based agency reported to Xinhua that cancellation rates jumped from 10% of bookings on November 17 to approximately 70% by November 18, with remaining reservations facing uncertainty as travelers adopt a wait-and-see approach.
Key developments:
Dozens of planned study tours and business delegations from China have withdrawn December itineraries
Hotel operators in Osaka and Kyoto report 45-60% vacancy rates for peak holiday dates
Analysts warn the downturn could impact Japan's Q4 retail and service sectors
The situation highlights how political rhetoric continues to influence Asia's travel economy, particularly in markets with deep historical and cultural ties.
