Diplomatic Tensions Fail to Derail Japan's Tourism Surge

Despite a diplomatic rift between Japan and China, Japan's tourism has continued to thrive with a 10.4% increase in visitors in November 2025. The friction began after remarks by Japan's Prime Minister on Taiwan, causing China to discourage travel to Japan. Chinese tourists remain the largest visitor group.

Despite ongoing diplomatic tensions between Japan and China, Japan's tourism numbers have continued to rise markedly. In November 2025, tourist numbers grew by 10.4% compared to the previous year, reaching 3.52 million, according to the Japan National Tourism Organisation.

The year 2025 has already surpassed the record number of 36.87 million visitors set in 2024. Growth from mainland China slowed to 3% in November, a stark contrast to the 37.5% increase seen year-to-date, due to diplomatic strains after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments about Taiwan.

China responded by advising its citizens against traveling to Japan, with Chinese airlines offering free flight refunds. This action impacted stocks in the tourism sector, yet mainland Chinese tourists still constituted nearly a quarter of all visitors to Japan in 2025.

(With inputs from agencies.)