Beijing / Tokyo / Hong Kong: China has sharply intensified its criticism of Japanese Prime Minister’s comments on Taiwan, accusing Tokyo of “interference in internal affairs” and encouraging separatist sentiment. The diplomatic backlash has grown so severe that Hong Kong authorities have now issued a travel advisory for residents heading to Japan, citing rising political friction.
China blasts Japan for ‘provocative’ stance on Taiwan
Beijing lodged multiple formal protests after the Japanese PM publicly voiced concerns over regional security involving Taiwan, a statement China interpreted as support for the island’s autonomy.
Chinese officials warned Japan to “exercise restraint,” accusing Tokyo of undermining the one-China principle and escalating regional tensions.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the remarks “seriously violate political commitments” made between the two nations.
Hong Kong issues travel alert amid rising diplomatic strain
In a move highlighting growing regional anxiety, Hong Kong’s Security Bureau issued a Level 2 travel alert for Japan, urging its residents to stay “vigilant and aware of potential hostilities or disruptions.”
While the advisory does not restrict travel, it warns of:
Increased diplomatic protests and public tensions
Possible anti-China sentiment in parts of Japan
Heightened surveillance around Chinese and Hong Kong visitors
Authorities also advised travelers to avoid political gatherings or sensitive locations.
Japan maintains position, says comments were ‘routine’
Tokyo downplayed China’s reaction, saying the PM’s remarks were part of Japan’s established security perspective in the Indo-Pacific.
Japanese officials insisted Tokyo’s position on Taiwan has not fundamentally changed, and that safeguarding regional stability is a legitimate concern.
Tensions spill into regional diplomacy
Analysts say the spat underscores widening mistrust between China and Japan, particularly as both countries recalibrate their strategies around Taiwan, maritime disputes, and shifting alliances.
The Hong Kong travel advisory also indicates how Beijing’s geopolitical disputes are directly influencing mobility and public advisories across the region.
Potential next steps
Experts warn that if the rhetorical escalation continues, it may impact:
China–Japan trade dialogues
Security cooperation in the East China Sea
Movement advisories for citizens on both sides
For now, the diplomatic friction triggered by the Japanese PM’s Taiwan comments shows no sign of easing, adding a new layer of volatility to East Asia’s already tense geopolitical climate.
