第一财经·2025-11-15 08:03Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent advisory from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese embassies in Japan, urging Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Japan due to safety concerns, which has led to major Chinese airlines offering free ticket changes and refunds for flights to Japan [5][6]. Group 1: Advisory and Airline Responses - The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning regarding the safety of Chinese citizens in Japan, citing an increase in criminal incidents against them [5][6]. - Major Chinese airlines, including Eastern Airlines, Southern Airlines, and Air China, have implemented free ticket change and refund policies for flights to Japan from November 15 to December 31, 2025 [5][6]. - The advisory has sparked significant discussion on social media about the safety of traveling to Japan [7]. Group 2: Travel Trends and Market Impact - Japan was a popular travel destination for Chinese tourists during the recent National Day holiday, with high demand leading to sold-out flights [7]. - Following the holiday, there has been a notable decline in demand for flights to Japan, with ticket prices dropping below 500 yuan, indicating a shift in market dynamics [7]. - The weekly flight volume from mainland China to Japan has decreased significantly, with a reported 14.5% drop compared to the previous week [9]. Group 3: Shift in Travel Preferences - Due to safety concerns in Thailand, there has been a shift in travel demand towards Japan and South Korea, with airlines potentially reallocating capacity from Japan to other routes [9]. - Spring Airlines reported strong demand for South Korea, while the Japanese market has seen an increase in supply, leading to improved demand-supply dynamics [9]. - The Southeast Asian market is gradually recovering as travelers perceive conventional tourism as having no significant risks [9].