Core Insights - The number of Chinese tourists in Japan has significantly decreased, impacting local businesses, while the number of Chinese tourists in South Korea has surged, boosting retail sales and tourism revenue [1][3]. Group 1: Impact on Japan - Japanese businesses are experiencing a sharp decline in revenue due to the absence of Chinese tourists, with some reporting monthly losses of approximately 3 million yen (around 140,000 RMB) [1]. - A notable lack of Chinese tourists was observed in areas where they previously constituted a significant portion of the customer base, with reports indicating that no Chinese tourists were found in certain popular shopping areas [1]. Group 2: Growth in South Korea - In October, around 472,000 Chinese tourists visited South Korea, marking a year-on-year increase of 20.5% [3]. - Sales from Chinese tourists at major South Korean duty-free stores have seen substantial growth, with Shilla Duty Free reporting a 40% increase in October and Lotte Duty Free reporting a 50% increase in November compared to the previous year [3]. - The influx of Chinese tourists is expected to continue, with projections indicating a three to fourfold increase during the New Year holiday period [3]. Group 3: Airline Operations - Korean Air anticipates a significant increase in passenger transport on Korea-China routes, expecting to carry 16.49 million passengers in 2025, with a total flight distance of 280 million kilometers [4]. - The number of travelers from Korea to major Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Qingdao has increased, with notable growth in passenger numbers [4]. - New direct flights between Qingdao and Daegu are set to launch, enhancing travel options and expected to have a high occupancy rate for initial flights [4].

Group 1 - The recent travel warnings from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese consulates in Japan have led to a surge in cancellations of flights, hotels, and tour packages for trips to Japan [1][2] - Major Chinese airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, have implemented special ticket handling policies for flights to Japan, with over ten airlines following suit to allow free cancellations and changes [1] - Sichuan Airlines has canceled its flight plans from Chengdu to Sapporo for the period from January 1, 2026, to March 28, 2026, while Spring Airlines has also canceled multiple flights to Japan [1] Group 2 - Travelers are sharing their experiences of successfully canceling hotel bookings in Japan on social media, indicating a shift in consumer behavior [2] - Online travel agencies (OTAs) are adjusting their business strategies, with some no longer accepting orders for popular routes to Japan that typically see high demand during this time of year [2]