Japan has issued a caution to its citizens in China to enhance safety measures and steer clear of crowded areas amidst escalating tensions between the two largest economies in Asia over remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan.
Takaichi triggered a significant diplomatic clash by stating to Japanese lawmakers that a Chinese assault on Taiwan, endangering Japan’s survival, could prompt a military retaliation.
The conflict could potentially impact Japan’s economy, as Beijing has advised its citizens against traveling there. Chinese nationals comprise a significant portion of tourists in Japan, amounting to nearly a quarter based on official statistics. Stocks related to tourism in Japan experienced a sharp decline following this news.
Over 10 Chinese airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, have initiated refunds for flights bound for Japan until December 31. Additionally, Sichuan Airlines has suspended its Chengdu-Sapporo route until at least March, as reported by state media.
Efforts were made by a senior Japanese official during a meeting in Beijing on Tuesday to alleviate tensions, but no immediate resolution seemed likely.
During a parliamentary committee session on November 7, Takaichi discussed potential scenarios that could provoke a Japanese military response, citing a Chinese naval blockade or other actions against Taiwan. Her statements were more forceful compared to those of her predecessors, who had expressed concerns about China’s threat to Taiwan without outlining Japan’s potential response.
Beijing claims sovereignty over democratically governed Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control. Taiwan’s government rejects these claims.
China’s Foreign Ministry demanded a retraction of Takaichi’s remarks at the meeting, but Japan’s top government spokesperson, Minoru Kihara, indicated that Tokyo was not inclined to do so. Kihara emphasized that the government’s stance remained unchanged and hoped for a peaceful resolution of Taiwan-related issues through dialogue.
In response to Takaichi’s comments, a Chinese diplomat in Japan posted a threatening message on social media, prompting a strong reaction from Tokyo. Despite efforts to counter negative commentary in Chinese state media, criticisms against Takaichi persisted.
Amidst media coverage in China, Japan’s embassy reminded its citizens in China to respect local customs, exercise caution in interactions, and remain vigilant in public spaces. The embassy advised against solo travel, encouraged avoiding suspicious individuals or groups, and prioritized safety, especially when accompanied by children.
The diplomatic spat has led to the suspension of at least two Japanese films’ screenings in China by film distributors, reflecting a souring sentiment domestically. Screening schedules for upcoming Japanese films, such as the animated “Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! Scorching Kasukabe Dancers” and manga adaptation “Cells at Work!” have been postponed in mainland China.
Aside from the tourism sector, Japan heavily relies on China for the supply of essential minerals used in various industries from electronics to automobiles. Japan’s economic security minister, Kimi Onoda, highlighted the risks of economic dependency on countries resorting to coercion following China’s warnings against travel to Japan.
Japanese Trade Minister Ryosei Akazawa noted no significant changes in China’s export control measures for rare earths and other materials. Business federations in Japan have urged dialogue to resolve the diplomatic tensions.
Taiwan’s proximity to Japanese territory, with vital sea routes for trade, and Japan’s hosting of the largest U.S. military presence overseas further heighten the strategic significance of the region. Recent actions by Chinese coast guard ships near disputed islands in the East China Sea have raised concerns, with the U.S. reaffirming its commitment to Japan’s defense in the event of an attack.
Tensions persist, with the U.S. ambassador to Japan asserting America’s dedication to defending Japan, including the disputed Senkaku Islands. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning dismissed these remarks as a politically motivated display.