Japan's tourism and retail sectors face mounting pressure as the number of Chinese visitors continues to decline following controversial remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding the Taiwan region. Industry analysts report a 20% year-on-year drop in Chinese tourist arrivals since August 2025, with major shopping districts in Tokyo and Osaka experiencing notable revenue decreases.
The downturn stems from heightened sensitivities after Prime Minister Takaichi's October statement affirming Japan's 'strategic interests' in cross-strait relations, which Chinese officials criticized as interference in internal affairs. A Tokyo-based electronics retailer told KhabarAsia: 'Chinese tourists accounted for 40% of our premium product sales last year. Now we're seeing empty group tour buses and silent cash registers.'
Japanese authorities have announced a ¥50 billion stimulus package for affected businesses while maintaining that tourism promotion remains 'separate from political discourse.' Meanwhile, China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism has yet to formally revise its travel advisories for Japan.
