China Issues Renewed Travel Advisory for Japan Following Tokyo Robbery Incident

The Chinese Embassy in Tokyo has issued a renewed travel advisory for its citizens, urging them to reconsider or postpone non-essential travel to Japan. This latest warning comes in the wake of a significant robbery incident in the Japanese capital that involved Chinese nationals. The embassy has also called upon Japanese authorities to swiftly resolve the case and enhance the protection of Chinese citizens residing in Japan.

Robbery Incident Details

The advisory was prompted by a robbery that occurred on the night of Thursday, January 29, 2026, around 9:30 p.m., in Tokyo's Taito Ward, near Ueno station. A group of five individuals, comprising two Chinese nationals and three Japanese nationals, were targeted while attempting to load suitcases filled with cash into a vehicle. During the incident, one of the Chinese nationals was reportedly sprayed with what appeared to be tear gas by three suspects. The perpetrators subsequently fled with the suitcases, which contained an estimated 420 million yen (approximately US$2.7 million) in cash. The suspects in this high-value theft remain at large. Japanese police are currently investigating a potential link between this incident and another tear gas attack and attempted robbery involving 190 million yen at Haneda Airport parking lot on the same night.

Embassy's Official Stance and Advice

The Chinese Embassy conveyed its renewed advisory through its official WeChat account. The statement urged Chinese citizens to 'refrain from visiting Japan in the near term' and advised those already in the country to 'closely monitor local public security conditions, raise safety awareness, and strengthen self-protection'. In emergency situations, Chinese nationals were instructed to 'report to the police immediately and contact Chinese diplomatic missions in Japan for assistance'. The embassy has also formally lodged representations with Japanese police, pressing for a prompt resolution to the case and effective measures to safeguard the lives and property of Chinese citizens in Japan.

Broader Context of Travel Warnings

This is not the first instance of China issuing travel warnings for Japan. Previous advisories, including one issued in November 2025 and another around January 27-28, 2026, cited broader concerns such as 'serious security threats', an increase in street crime targeting Chinese nationals, and recurrent earthquake activity. These warnings have also been linked to persistent bilateral tensions, particularly following remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last November concerning a potential Taiwan contingency. Analysts suggest that these advisories may also reflect a retaliatory stance amidst deteriorating diplomatic relations between Beijing and Tokyo. The impact of these warnings has been notable, with reports of a significant drop in searches for Japan as a travel destination and a surge in refund requests from airlines and tour operators.