Japan has called on China to take “appropriate measures” after Beijing issued a travel advisory warning Chinese citizens against visiting Japan, escalating diplomatic tensions linked to the ongoing dispute over Taiwan.
According to a report by Kyodo News, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Tokyo had formally conveyed its concerns to Beijing and urged the Chinese government to reconsider its stance. He did not specify what steps Japan expects China to take.
China issued the advisory on Friday following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who said last week that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could create a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, possibly prompting a military response under its national security framework.
Tokyo says dialogue with Beijing remains essential
Kihara noted that Japan and China maintain differing views on Taiwan but stressed the importance of ongoing communication to prevent further escalation.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control. The island lies roughly 110 kilometres from Japanese territory, making any potential conflict a direct security concern for Tokyo.
Taiwan’s government strongly rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
Shift from Japan’s cautious approach
Japanese leaders have historically avoided explicitly naming Taiwan in discussions about regional defence scenarios, adopting a “strategic ambiguity” approach similar to that of the United States—Japan’s key security ally.
Prime Minister Takaichi’s statement marks a notable shift in tone, drawing swift criticism from China and prompting new friction between the two Asian powers.