New Travel Crisis Hits Asia as 1,900 Flight Cancellations Between China and Japan Impact Travel Massively

Published on December 5, 2025

With the worsening of the diplomatic bonds between China and Japan come issues concerning the travel industry with the cancelation of 1,900 flights between the two nations scheduled for this December, some more than others, including Air China and China Eastern Airlines. Considering the current political climate between China and Japan, the cancelation of these flights is unfortunate, especially at a time for the holidays. Other countries to the East of Japan are more likely to be chosen since people no longer are able to go to Japan.

Geopolitical tensions, including combat-related risk and the statements issued with them by Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi, are the focus of the travel restrictions implemented by the Chinese government. The previously and presently projected decrease in demand for flights from Japan have warranted a travel advisory from the Chinese government, cutting the flights offered from the most impacted countries and air travel hubs to Japan, PEK and PVG.

Travel Bookings Plunge as Political Strain Takes a Toll on Chinese Tourists’ Travel Plans

The growing diplomatic rift has affected more than just airline operations. Travel platforms and industry analysts have reported a notable drop in bookings from Chinese travelers to Japan. Compared to October, bookings for December travel to Japan have plummeted by over 35%. With many passengers reassessing their plans, airlines have responded by widening their refund windows and adjusting flight capacity, further contributing to the cancellation of hundreds of flights scheduled for the remainder of the month.

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV highlighted that nearly 40% of flights between China and Japan had been canceled for December, with this percentage expected to rise as the month progresses. Airlines like China Eastern Airlines and Air China have cut back their schedules significantly, especially on high-traffic routes from Beijing, Shanghai, and other Chinese cities to major Japanese airports in Tokyo and Osaka.

The Broader Impact: South Korea, Russia, and Southeast Asia See Surge in Chinese Bookings

As Japan struggles with the fallout from the diplomatic dispute, neighboring countries have benefitted from the redirection of Chinese tourists. South Korea, Thailand, Russia, and Southeast Asian nations have seen an uptick in bookings as travelers search for alternatives to Japan. According to several reports, Russia stands out as a particularly attractive option due to its low prices and visa-free entry for Chinese nationals.

In the wake of the flight cancellations, travel agencies are reporting a surge in interest for destinations like Moscow and St. Petersburg, where Chinese tourists can explore cultural landmarks without the need for complex visa requirements. Similarly, Southeast Asia, with its diverse range of visa-free destinations, has seen a significant rise in demand. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore have all recorded higher bookings, as Chinese travelers look to rebook their holidays in locations with fewer travel restrictions.

Japan Faces Economic Consequences as Chinese Tourists Reconsider Travel Plans

The impact of these flight cancellations is not just felt in the aviation sector but also within Japan’s broader tourism economy. Chinese tourists have long been a key source of revenue for Japan’s travel and hospitality industries. According to recent research, spending by Chinese tourists makes up about 0.4% of Japan’s GDP, and the ongoing diplomatic tension poses a real threat to Japan’s economic stability in the short term.

However, despite the current turmoil, experts note that the full collapse of Chinese tourism is unlikely. Past geopolitical crises have shown that Japan’s tourism sector is resilient, with recovery typically occurring once diplomatic tensions ease. In the meantime, businesses across Japan are preparing for a slowdown in tourist spending, particularly during the winter season.

Airlines and Tourism Agencies Respond to the Crisis with Adjusted Strategies

As airlines and travel agencies continue to grapple with the cancellations and the declining demand for Japan-bound flights, the focus has shifted to risk management and capacity adjustments. Travel technology companies have reported ongoing flight cancellations into late December, and industry insiders warn that the situation could extend into 2026. If diplomatic tensions do not subside, experts predict that the number of travelers between China and Japan may decrease by as much as 40-50% in the first quarter of 2026, a critical period for both countries’ tourism sectors.

Japanese businesses are closely monitoring the ongoing situation, particularly those that rely heavily on Chinese tourist spending. While the yen’s weakness has drawn international tourists seeking affordable destinations, the reduced influx from China could offset the benefits of a weaker currency. If conditions worsen, analysts speculate that Japan’s currency could reach new lows, potentially hitting 160 yen per US dollar.

Uncertainty Looms as Geopolitical Tensions Continue to Disrupt Regional Travel

The situation remains fluid, and while most experts believe that the travel market between China and Japan will eventually stabilize, the near-term outlook is uncertain. For travelers, airlines, and tourism operators, the next few months will be a challenging period as they navigate the disruption caused by the ongoing diplomatic dispute. The immediate effects of the cancellations are evident, but the long-term impact will depend heavily on the political dialogue between Beijing and Tokyo.

For now, travelers are exploring new options, and airlines are adjusting their operations to meet the demand for alternative routes. The growing interest in destinations like South Korea, Russia, and Southeast Asia presents a silver lining for these regions, while Japan faces an uphill battle to maintain its status as a top destination for Chinese tourists.