Chinese Tourist Arrivals to Japan Drop 45% in December 2025

Chinese tourist arrivals to Japan fell sharply in December 2025, declining by 45% year on year and marking the first significant contraction in nearly four years. The drop represents a notable shift after a prolonged period of steady recovery and growth following the reopening of international travel across Asia.

According to tourism data, the slowdown came after months of robust inbound demand from China, which had re-emerged as one of Japan’s most important source markets. The December decline interrupted a recovery trend that began in early 2022, when travel restrictions were gradually eased and pent-up demand drove strong outbound travel from China to nearby destinations.

Industry observers point to several factors behind the sudden reversal. A weakening Chinese economy, pressure on household spending, and cautious consumer sentiment have all contributed to reduced discretionary travel. In addition, higher airfares during the peak winter travel season and capacity constraints on key routes between China and Japan have made short-haul international trips less accessible for price-sensitive travelers.

Geopolitical and regulatory considerations may also have played a role. While tourism flows between China and Japan have generally normalized, lingering political tensions and periodic travel advisories can influence booking behavior, particularly among first-time travelers. Analysts note that even minor shifts in sentiment can have an outsized impact given the scale of the Chinese outbound market.

The decline is significant for Japan’s tourism sector, which has relied heavily on Chinese visitors for retail spending, accommodation demand, and regional tourism growth. Before the pandemic, travelers from China accounted for a large share of inbound tourism receipts, especially in major urban centers and popular shopping destinations. The recent downturn has already prompted concerns among retailers and hospitality operators about weaker winter-season performance.

Despite the December drop, officials and industry leaders remain cautious about interpreting the figures as a long-term trend. Travel demand from China has shown volatility over the past several years, often influenced by economic conditions and policy shifts. Early booking indicators for early 2026 suggest a more stable outlook, supported by gradual increases in flight capacity and renewed marketing efforts aimed at high-spending travelers.

Tourism authorities in Japan are expected to continue diversifying source markets while maintaining a focus on China as a core pillar of inbound growth. The December figures serve as a reminder of the sector’s sensitivity to economic and geopolitical factors, even after years of sustained recovery.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com