China Issues Renewed Travel Warning for Japan Ahead of Lunar New Year

China Reissues Japan Travel Advisory for Lunar New Year

Beijing, China – The Chinese Foreign Ministry has reissued a travel warning for Japan, advising its citizens to refrain from visiting the country during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday in February. The advisory, issued on Monday, January 26, 2026, cites a combination of deteriorating public security, an increase in criminal incidents targeting Chinese nationals, and ongoing earthquake risks in Japan as primary concerns.

Security and Natural Disaster Concerns Highlighted

The warning from China's Foreign Ministry, specifically its Department of Consular Affairs, stated that 'public security in Japan has deteriorated, with frequent incidents of illegal and criminal acts targeting Chinese citizens.' The ministry also noted that a 'series of earthquakes in some regions has caused injuries,' leading to a declaration that Chinese citizens in Japan face 'serious security threats.' The Lunar New Year holiday, also known as the Spring Festival, is a lengthy period typically observed from February 17 to March 3, during which many Chinese citizens travel internationally.

Diplomatic Tensions Underpinning the Warning

This latest travel advisory is not an isolated incident but rather a reiteration of similar warnings first issued in November and December 2025. These earlier warnings followed comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in early November, suggesting that Tokyo might intervene militarily if China were to attack Taiwan. Beijing reacted strongly to these remarks, which it viewed as inflammatory, leading to a significant strain in diplomatic relations. The Chinese government's response has included export curbs, flight cancellations, and critical commentaries in state media. China's defense ministry had previously warned Tokyo of a 'crushing' military defeat should it attempt to intervene over Taiwan.

Impact on Travel and Advice to Citizens

The ongoing diplomatic tensions and travel warnings have already had a measurable impact on tourism. Data indicates that the number of Chinese visitors to Japan plummeted by 45 percent in December compared to the previous year. In response to the advisories, major Chinese airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, have extended their policies allowing free changes or cancellations for Japan-related flights until October 24. Furthermore, reports indicate that 49 China-Japan air routes have seen all flights scheduled for February cancelled. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged its citizens currently in Japan to closely monitor the local security situation and earthquake warnings, enhance their safety awareness, and take necessary precautions. In case of emergencies, Chinese nationals are advised to contact local police or the Chinese embassy or consulates in Japan for assistance.