Hong Kong authorities have issued a travel warning for Japan, citing a rise in attacks on Chinese citizens, a move that highlights deepening diplomatic friction between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan.
The Security Bureau of Hong Kong advised residents traveling to or residing in Japan to exercise increased caution. They also recommended closely monitoring announcements from the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Japan.
The warning, issued November 16, 2025, follows a similar directive from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on November 14, 2025. Beijing urged its citizens to temporarily avoid travel to Japan due to escalating safety risks.
Both advisories specifically mentioned a continuous increase in assaults on Chinese nationals in Japan since mid-2025.
Analysts suggest these travel warnings are directly linked to recent political tensions between the two East Asian powers.
The diplomatic row intensified after remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in parliament earlier this month. Prime Minister Takaichi stated that a military emergency in Taiwan could be considered an “existential threat” to Japan.
China’s government strongly condemned these comments. Beijing views any discussion of Taiwan’s status as an interference in its internal affairs.
Japan remains a highly popular tourist destination for Hong Kong residents. Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization shows over 2.68 million Hong Kong tourists visited Japan last year. This made them the fifth-largest group of international visitors to the country.