Japan has issued a safety warning to its citizens in China, urging them to take extra precautions and avoid crowded places. The alert comes amid a deepening diplomatic clash between Asia’s two largest economies over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments on Taiwan.
A senior Japanese foreign ministry official traveled to Beijing on Tuesday to hold talks with Chinese counterparts in a bid to calm tensions, but the advisory signals the seriousness of the situation.
Meanwhile, China has urged its citizens not to travel to Japan, a move that could deliver a heavy blow to Japan’s tourism industry. Chinese tourists make up nearly a quarter of all visitors to Japan, and tourism-related stocks have already taken a hit.
The Spark: Takaichi’s Taiwan Comments
This conflict marks the most serious diplomatic clash in years. Takaichi told Japanese lawmakers that a Chinese attack on Taiwan threatening Japan’s survival could trigger a military response.
The remarks drew a threatening social media comment from a Chinese diplomat and a wave of critical coverage in Chinese state media.
“We have made judgments based on comprehensive consideration of the security situation,” said Japan’s embassy spokesperson Kihara, explaining the rationale behind the safety advisory.
The embassy also urged Japanese citizens to respect local customs and remain vigilant:
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Be aware of your surroundings.
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Avoid traveling alone.
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Exercise extra caution when with children.
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Leave immediately if someone appears suspicious.
Cultural and Economic Fallout
The diplomatic spat has already affected entertainment and media. Two Japanese films, including Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! Scorching Kasukabe Dancers and Cells at Work!, have had their China release suspended amid declining domestic interest.
Taiwan, located just over 110 km from Japanese territory, remains a flashpoint. China claims Taiwan as its own and has not ruled out force to assert control. Japan, hosting the largest U.S. military presence in Asia, relies on the surrounding waters for trade, adding layers of complexity.
On Sunday, Chinese coast guard ships sailed near disputed islands in the East China Sea. Japan’s coast guard drove them away. The U.S., which does not formally recognize the islands as Japanese territory, reaffirmed its commitment to defend them under the Japan-U.S. security treaty.
Economic Vulnerabilities
Japan is heavily dependent on China for critical minerals essential for electronics and automotive industries. Economic security minister Kimi Onoda warned that over-reliance on a country prone to economic coercion is dangerous, affecting not just supply chains but tourism as well.
Despite the tensions, Japan reports no immediate changes in China’s export control measures for rare earths or other critical materials. Japanese business leaders continue to push for dialogue.
“Political stability is a prerequisite for economic exchange,” said Yoshinobu Tsutsui, chairman of Keidanren, Japan’s largest business federation.
On a Knife’s Edge
Experts say Japan’s refusal to retract its statements means efforts to de-escalate have largely failed, leaving relations between the two countries on a knife’s edge.
With tourism, trade, and regional security all hanging in the balance, the coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevent further escalation.
