Cancellations Surge Amid Diplomatic Row
As of 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, flight-tracking app DAST reports that 12 routes connecting the Chinese mainland and Japan have fully suspended service. This week’s cancellation rate is set to climb, signaling a big blow to Japan’s tourism vibe. 😬📉
Hotels and Retailers Feel the Heat
From Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to Kyoto’s historic temples, businesses are bracing for fewer arrivals. Hotel occupancy rates have already dipped, with year-end bookings taking a hit. Retailers and tour operators warn that if the trend continues, they could face significant revenue losses.
What Sparked the Drop?
The wave of cancellations follows diplomatic tensions sparked by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent remarks about the island of Taiwan. Though Beijing hasn’t issued an official travel ban, many travellers from the Chinese mainland are playing it safe and postponing or cancelling trips.
Looking Ahead
With the holiday season around the corner and international travel picking up post-pandemic, Japan’s tourism sector is eager for a rebound. Industry insiders suggest a mix of targeted promotions and diplomatic dialogues to win back confidence. For now, it’s a waiting game—will travellers return once the noise settles? 🤔✈️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
