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].

Core Viewpoint - The opening of the direct flight route from Qingdao to Daegu marks a significant upgrade in the air connection between the two cities, enhancing travel options for business and tourism in Shandong and surrounding areas [1][2]. Group 1: Flight Details - The new Qingdao-Daegu route will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays, with a flight duration of approximately 2 hours [1]. - The initial one-way economy class ticket price is set at a minimum of 550 yuan [1]. - Flight schedule details include: - Qingdao to Daegu: Flight QW9891, 17:10-20:10 on Wednesdays/Sundays - Daegu to Qingdao: Flight QW9892, 21:00-22:40 on Wednesdays/Sundays [1]. Group 2: Daegu's Tourism Appeal - Daegu is known for its rich tourism resources, including modern cultural alleys, E-World amusement park, and the iconic 83 Tower, offering panoramic city views [2]. - The city is recognized as the birthplace of Korean fried chicken culture and hosts the Daegu Fried Chicken and Beer Festival every July, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world [2]. - The new flight tickets are available for purchase on major online ticketing platforms and through Qingdao Airlines' official channels [2].