Japan has issued a safety warning to its citizens in China amid a deepening diplomatic crisis between the two countries. The advisory, released by Japan’s embassy in China, urged citizens to exercise heightened caution, avoid crowded areas, and be vigilant when traveling alone or with children.
The warning comes after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments on Taiwan sparked tensions, with Beijing accusing Japan of threatening regional stability.
A senior Japanese foreign ministry official traveled to Beijing on Tuesday for talks with Chinese counterparts in an attempt to ease tensions.
Meanwhile, China advised its citizens not to travel to Japan, a move that could significantly impact Japan’s economy, as Chinese tourists constitute nearly a quarter of foreign visitors. Tourism-related stocks in Japan have already fallen in response.
The diplomatic clash has affected cultural exchanges as well. At least two Japanese films, including Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! Scorching Kasukabe Dancers and Cells at Work!, have been delayed in China, with state media framing the decision as reflecting domestic sentiment.
The dispute is rooted in regional security concerns. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out forceful reunification, while Japan views Taiwan’s proximity and its surrounding waters as critical for trade and security.
Tensions were heightened when Chinese coast guard ships entered waters around the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands, prompting Japan to take defensive action. The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to Japan’s defense under the Japan-U.S. security treaty.
Economic dependence on China adds another layer of complexity. Japan relies on China for critical minerals and supply chains essential to electronics and automotive industries. Officials have warned that overreliance could pose risks amid potential economic coercion, although no export restrictions have been imposed yet.
Efforts to ease tensions, including possible discussions at the G20 summit in South Africa, have so far not yielded results. Japanese business leaders have urged dialogue to restore stability, emphasizing that political calm is essential for economic exchange. Experts note that the situation leaves Japan and China “on a knife’s edge,” with both security and economic stakes hanging in the balance.
