In view of the ongoing safety concerns over the pandemic, China is appealing for its citizens to refrain from trips to Japan ahead of the Lunar New Year, the country's longest holiday. The agenda largely focuses on controlling and reducing potential risks related to mass movements, cross-border transmission and the inconveniences it could impose on both nations. Specific timelines or further instructions have not been announced yet.
Reducing the spread of disease is a top priority for Japan, and the country respects China's proactive approach for the same. As the Lunar New Year is a time when many Chinese citizens typically travel abroad, a surge in arrivals could raise health and safety concerns, as well as put pressure on the local health infrastructure. Japan is dedicated to ensuring the safety and welfare of both its citizens and international guests, valuing high health standards and efficient border control measures in its policies.
Like Japan, the US and EU have also appreciated the move by other countries to limit non-essential international travel amidst health crises. Policies to govern travel advisories, quarantine requirements, and other safety protocols are similar in many aspects. Yet, the specific context of Lunar New Year travel does not have a direct equivalent in the US or EU.