Explainer | How China-Japan row is disrupting travel and what it means for Hong Kong

Recent tensions erupted after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Tokyo might take military action if Beijing invaded Taiwan

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About 491,000 air tickets from mainland China to Japan were cancelled within a short period after carriers swiftly announced free refunds or itinerary changes for flights booked through December 31. Photo: AFP

Published: 3:24pm, 21 Nov 2025Updated: 8:14pm, 21 Nov 2025

Rising tensions between China and Japan have caused uncertainty in the tourism sector, with both mainland and Hong Kong authorities cautioning against travel to the country.

Nearly half a million air tickets from mainland China to Japan were recently cancelled, while a Hong Kong tour operator reported a decline in inquiries about travel there. Some Hong Kong airlines have offered refunds or flexible arrangements for passengers wishing to change their holiday plans in Japan.

The Post reviews developments and examines what may lie ahead for the industry and holidaymakers.

1. What caused the row?

The recent tensions stemmed from comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on November 7, when she suggested the country might consider military action if Beijing attempted to invade or blockade Taiwan.

Beijing viewed these remarks as crossing a red line regarding Taiwan and Japan’s military responses.

China’s foreign ministry issued a warning on Friday last week, urging its people to avoid travelling to Japan due to “continued deterioration” in safety conditions there.

Tensions have flared after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently suggested Tokyo might take military action if Beijing invaded Taiwan. Photo: Reuters

2. How did Hong Kong respond?

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