Japan’s inbound tourism momentum showed signs of strain in January 2026, as the continued absence of Chinese tourists significantly impacted overall visitor numbers and spending patterns.
While Japan remains one of Asia’s most attractive destinations, industry data and regional reporting suggest that the recovery remains uneven — particularly in high-spend segments traditionally dominated by mainland Chinese travelers.
China Construction America (CCA), the US subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation, has officially emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, bringing to a close the long-running legal dispute tied to the development of the Baha Mar mega-resort in The Bahamas.
The restructuring marks the final chapter of one of the most complex cross-border disputes ever associated with a large-scale integrated resort (IR) development.
Japan’s northern prefecture of Hokkaido has set aside approximately US$65,000 in its latest budget to conduct fresh research into the feasibility of developing a casino-integrated resort (IR), according to multiple regional media sources.
While modest in size, the allocation signals that Hokkaido is not closing the door on potential participation in Japan’s future IR expansion rounds.
Chinese embassies in both Singapore and Vietnam have issued public advisories urging Chinese nationals to refrain from gambling during the Chinese New Year (CNY) period, reinforcing Beijing’s long-standing policy stance against overseas gaming activities.
Macau welcomed more than 215,000 visitors during the first two days of the Chinese New Year (CNY) Golden Week, reinforcing expectations of a strong seasonal rebound for the city’s tourism and integrated resort (IR) sector.
Author: Janice Chew • Saturday, 21/02/2026
