Experts in Japan have predicted a 74% to 81% probability of an 8 to 9 magnitude earthquake occurring in the China South Sea within the next 30 years, increasing to a 75% to 82% chance by 2025. This forecast has led some Hong Kong residents who love traveling to Japan to reconsider their plans, with reports of cancellations.
Media reports indicate that travel agencies have acknowledged a decline in inquiries for tours to Japan after the Lunar New Year, while interest in long-haul trips to destinations like Dubai and Turkey, priced between HK$15,000 to 20,000, has increased. Agency representatives stated they would adjust their offerings based on market demand: if fewer travelers head to Japan, they may lower prices or ramp up advertising; conversely, if interest in the Middle East or Europe rises, they'll increase capacity for those routes.
Some agencies noted that May and June are traditionally off-peak months for Japan, yet tour bookings remain high. One traveler expressed concern about not being able to visit Japan during the July summer break, prompting them to book their trip now. Interestingly, July to August is typically off-peak for Australia, but inquiries have surged recently, leaving uncertainty about whether this is related to fears of earthquakes in Japan.
However, some agency representatives believe not everyone is worried. They noted that natural disasters can happen anywhere, and while there may be short-term impacts from such reports, they are confident that interest in Japanese tours will rebound as concerns diminish.
Related News:
HK reports first human case of B virus infection, victim dies after four months
Earthquake report: 5.8 magnitude strikes off Japan's Honshu coast
Comment