Full Breakdown
Chinese Tourists Favor South Korea Over Japan for Lunar New Year
1/28/2026, 8:25:06 AM
Surge in Chinese Visitors to South Korea
For the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday starting February 15, South Korea is projected to welcome between 230,000 to 250,000 mainland Chinese tourists, marking a significant shift in travel preferences. This influx is expected to surpass the number of Chinese visitors to Japan for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the market researcher China Trading Desk, this represents a 52% increase compared to the previous Lunar holiday in 2025, which was shorter in duration.
Factors Influencing Travel Choices
Several factors contribute to this trend. Rising diplomatic tensions between China and Japan have led to a decline in Chinese tourist interest in Japan, with arrivals forecasted to drop by as much as 60%. In contrast, South Korea has actively eased visa restrictions for Chinese tour groups, extending a visa-free entry policy through June. Additionally, a favorable exchange rate between the Chinese renminbi and the South Korean won enhances South Korea's appeal as a cost-effective destination. Popular locations for Chinese tourists include Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island.
Impact of Geopolitical Dynamics
The shift in travel patterns underscores the influence of geopolitical relations on tourism. Following controversial remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, China issued travel advisories against Japan, citing safety concerns. This has led to a notable decrease in Chinese bookings for Japan, with a reported 48% drop in scheduled flights from China to Japan. Conversely, airlines have increased flights to South Korea by nearly 25%, with over 1,330 flights planned for the holiday.
Economic Implications for South Korea and Japan
The economic impact of this surge in Chinese tourism is significant. Spending by mainland visitors in South Korea is expected to exceed US$330 million during the holiday week, outpacing the US$250 million to US$300 million forecast for Japan. Analysts predict that over seven million mainland tourists will visit South Korea in 2026, a 15% increase from 2025. This anticipated growth has positively influenced South Korean retail and consumer stocks, as investors expect increased spending from Chinese tourists.
Criticism and Concerns in South Korea
Despite the economic benefits, the influx of Chinese tourists has sparked concerns among some South Koreans. Local media and social platforms have linked rising crime rates to the increase in visitors, although the government has dismissed these claims as unfounded. A petition to abolish the visa-free policy has garnered around 60,000 signatures, reflecting a segment of the population that is apprehensive about the rapid increase in tourism.
Conclusion: A Shift in the Tourism Landscape
As the Lunar New Year approaches, the dynamics of Chinese outbound tourism are shifting dramatically. South Korea's rise as a preferred destination over Japan illustrates how quickly geopolitical tensions can reshape travel patterns in Asia. With ongoing changes in diplomatic relations and economic factors, the tourism landscape in the region is likely to continue evolving in the coming years.
Verbatim Quotes
“I think anti-China sentiment in Japan is relatively strong now, and they would worry it might pose a threat to my personal safety.” — Anonymous Chinese Tourist
“Twenty years in Korea and I haven’t seen a surge like this,” — Tony Medina, Seoul Medical Guide
