Japan has publicly released crime statistics to counter recent statements by Chinese authorities suggesting that the security environment in Japan has worsened and that Chinese nationals are at heightened risk.

The disclosure came amid a diplomatic row triggered by Tokyo’s criticism of Beijing over regional security issues — including tensions relating to Taiwan — which prompted the Chinese Embassy to issue travel advisories warning citizens against visiting Japan and urging heightened vigilance.

In response, Japanese authorities released figures showing actual criminal incidents involving Chinese nationals over a specified period, noting that the numbers did not indicate a significant surge or an unusually high rate of attacks compared with previous years. This was intended to provide context and factual basis against the Chinese embassy’s warnings about declining public safety.

General crime statistics in Japan show that overall reported crime had been rising modestly in recent years after decades of decline, particularly in categories like theft and fraud, though absolute levels remain far below historical peaks.

The data release reflects broader diplomatic tensions between Tokyo and Beijing, with both sides seeking to influence international opinion on safety, travel, and bilateral relations.