Chinese Tourists Ditch Japan for Third Month Running
Friday, 2026/03/27180 words3 minutes921 reads
The number of Chinese visitors to Japan fell sharply by 45.2 percent in February compared to the previous year, marking the third consecutive month of decline. This dramatic drop follows a diplomatic conflict between the two countries.
Chinese travelers were previously Japan's largest tourist group, attracted by cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, and affordable shopping thanks to the weak yen. However, South Korea has now overtaken China as the top source of visitors. In February, 1.1 million South Koreans visited Japan, while only 396,400 Chinese tourists arrived. Meanwhile, 18 countries and regions, including Taiwan and the United States, set new records for visitor numbers to Japan.
The tension began in November when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Japan might intervene militarily if China attempted to take Taiwan. China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, responded furiously by warning its citizens against traveling to Japan. As a result, Chinese tourists are now choosing alternative destinations like South Korea and Thailand. Some Tokyo hotels report that Chinese guests have halved since November, and this trend may continue through the cherry blossom season.
