On Sunday, China’s Ministry of Education issued an official warning advising Chinese nationals to “cautiously consider” whether they should study in Japan. Without presenting any specific data, it cited “poor public security” as the reason for the overseas study alert, claiming that there has been an increase in crimes against Chinese nationals. It added that the study environment has become unfavorable. Those already studying here have been urged to closely monitor the security situation.
China’s Foreign Ministry Issues Alert Urging Citizens ‘To Refrain From Visiting Japan’
The alert from China’s Education Ministry came just two days after the nation’s Foreign Ministry urged its citizens to refrain from visiting Japan for the time being. The statement by the ministry accused Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of making “blatantly provocative remarks on Taiwan” that have “further damaged the atmosphere for people-to-people exchange.” It added that this has created “additional risks to the safety and security of Chinese citizens in Japan.”
Earlier this month, Takaichi asserted that if China were to impose a naval blockade on Taiwan, it would likely constitute a “survival-threatening situation” that could force Japan to respond. Later asked to clarify her position, she said, “Although I stated a number of possible scenarios, I also said the government will make a comprehensive judgment on whether the situation constitutes a ‘survival-threatening situation’ taking into account all information.” Takaichi’s remarks led to a threatening message posted on X by Xue Jian, China’s Consul General in Osaka.
Hong Kong and Macau Also Issue Advisories
The Chinese Foreign Ministry wasn’t the only organization to issue an advisory urging caution against traveling to Japan. On Saturday, Hong Kong’s Security Bureau updated information on its website about travel to Japan. “Since mid-2025, there has been an increasing trend of attack incidents against Chinese citizens in Japan,” read the advisory. “The government reminds Hong Kong residents who intend to visit the country or are already there to exercise caution, attend to personal safety, pay attention to local announcements on the latest situation and notices on consular services from the Chinese embassy or consulate general in Japan.”
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) issued a similar statement over the weekend. “The Macao SAR Government advises Macau residents currently in Japan or planning to travel there to remain vigilant,” it read. “The MGTO continues to monitor developments in Japan and has updated its travel advisory webpage with special reminders for Japan. Macau residents planning to travel or already in Japan are advised to remain vigilant, prioritize safety, monitor local announcements on the latest developments and follow consular service information issued by the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in Japan.”
