Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant impact of political statements on the tourism industry in Japan, particularly in Hokkaido, where a sudden wave of cancellations has severely affected local businesses, especially in the hospitality sector [5][10]. Group 1: Impact of Political Events - The cancellation of bookings in Hokkaido's Wing Niseko accommodations reached 50% within a few days, resulting in losses exceeding 200,000 yuan [5][10]. - The cancellations were triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Kishi Nobuo's controversial remarks regarding Taiwan, which led to public protests and concerns about safety among potential tourists [5][9]. Group 2: Business Operations and Financial Implications - The winter season is critical for the hospitality business in Hokkaido, accounting for 90% of annual revenue, and the legal restriction of operating only 180 days a year exacerbates the situation [11]. - The business had initially seen a strong demand for the 2025-2026 winter season, with bookings nearly full by mid-November, but the political situation caused a drastic reversal [7][10]. Group 3: Market Conditions and Competition - The hospitality market in Osaka has become highly competitive, with a significant increase in the number of registered accommodations, leading to price reductions and tighter profit margins [13][15]. - The establishment of a special task force in Osaka to regulate the short-term rental market indicates increasing scrutiny and potential challenges for existing operators [15]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Strategies - The company is preparing for a year without profit due to the current situation and is focusing on expanding its market to include local Japanese and European customers [12][16]. - There is hope that the political climate will stabilize, allowing for a resurgence in tourism, particularly during the winter season [16].

Core Viewpoint - The sudden wave of cancellations in the hospitality industry in Hokkaido, Japan, is primarily attributed to the controversial remarks made by Prime Minister Kishi Nobuo regarding Taiwan, which have led to safety concerns among potential Chinese tourists [7][15]. Group 1: Impact on Business - The cancellation rate for bookings at the Wing Niseko lodgings has reached nearly 50%, resulting in direct losses exceeding 200,000 yuan [3][17]. - The peak of cancellations occurred on November 15 and 16, with the business receiving over 20 cancellation requests in a single day [16]. - Each lodging is facing losses between 50,000 to 80,000 yuan, with total losses potentially doubling if the situation persists throughout the winter season [19][21]. Group 2: Market Conditions - The winter season typically accounts for 90% of annual revenue for these lodgings, and the legal framework limits operations to 180 days per year [4][21]. - Prior to the cancellations, the winter season was expected to be exceptionally strong, with bookings nearly full by mid-November [10][12]. - The hospitality market in Osaka has become increasingly competitive, with a significant rise in the number of registered lodgings, leading to price reductions and tighter regulations [31][35]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The company is preparing for a year without profit and is actively seeking to expand its market to include European and local Japanese tourists [41]. - There is hope that the current political tensions will subside, allowing for a return of tourists to experience Hokkaido's winter attractions [41][42].