China’s Anger Toward Japan Hits Pop Culture

Beijing has launched a new wave of restrictions on Japanese entertainment, targeting movies, music, and visual art. The move is widely seen as a retaliatory measure against Tokyo’s continued diplomatic support for Taiwan.

What the crackdown entails

Since early 2024, Chinese regulators have ordered streaming platforms to remove Japanese films from their catalogs, halted the release of new Japanese albums, and warned galleries against showcasing contemporary Japanese works. Existing Japanese titles already on Chinese services are being taken down, and upcoming releases face delayed approvals.

Why the policy shift now?

The timing coincides with a series of high‑profile statements from Japanese officials affirming support for Taiwan’s democratic system. In response, the Chinese government has signaled that cultural exchanges will be used as leverage, aiming to pressure Japan into a more neutral stance.

Impact on artists and fans

Japanese pop stars and filmmakers are feeling the effects. J‑pop group “Morning Glory” announced that their upcoming concert tour in Shanghai has been cancelled, while director Kenji Tanaka reported that his latest film, “Silent Harbor,” will not receive a theatrical release in mainland China.

Chinese fans, too, are left with fewer options to enjoy Japanese media. Online communities have begun sharing workarounds, but the official bans limit legal access and reduce revenue for both sides of the industry.

International reaction

Media watchdogs and cultural NGOs have criticized the restrictions as “cultural politicisation,” warning that such measures could further strain Sino‑Japanese relations. The United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) urged both governments to keep cultural dialogue open, even amid diplomatic disputes.

As the situation develops, the entertainment sector will likely watch closely to see whether the cultural embargo expands or eases, depending on the broader geopolitical climate.