China travel agencies resume Japan group tours, some later halt sales

Chinese travel agencies have begun accepting bookings for group tours to Japan, a highly sought-after destination for Chinese tourists, particularly during the summer vacation period.

However, the resumption of these tours has been met with caution. Some agencies reportedly halted sales shortly after resuming them, possibly in response to increased attention from Chinese media and potential government oversight. The source close to the matter indicated that offering Japan tours is crucial for the survival of travel businesses.

This development follows a period where the Chinese government had discouraged its citizens from traveling to Japan. This advisory was issued after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made remarks concerning Japan's potential role in a Taiwan contingency. The government also instructed major travel agencies to reduce Japan-bound visa applications, leading to widespread cancellations of group tours.

“

Travel agencies can’t survive (as a business) if they don’t offer (Japan tours).