Cross-strait tensions deter Japanese tourists to Taiwan

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As fewer Japanese tourists are visiting Taiwan post-pandemic, a scholar pointed out on Tuesday (Nov. 14) that one prevalent reason is the depreciation of the Japanese yen, but the major concern is the growing cross-strait tensions.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the international tourism market has started to rebound. However, the number of Japanese tourists visiting Taiwan has only recovered to 33% of pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2023.

Ringo Lee, assistant professor of the Tourism Management Department at Taipei City University of Science & Technology (TPCU), explained the the instability in the Taiwan Strait has created unease among Japanese tourists.

Lee advised that maintaining stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait is a key task for the new line-up of top government leaders.

Another contributing factor to Japan's decreased tourism in Taiwan is the rising interest in South Korea, including its Korean pop culture, local delicacies, casinos, and cosmetic surgery services, despite its more expensive cost to visit after the pandemic, Lee noted.