Japanese catering firm apologizes after outlet refuses Chinese customers

A Japanese catering firm issued a formal apology after one of its Osaka-based yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) restaurants posted signs refusing service to Chinese customers, Japanese media Nikkansports reported Wednesday.

The move came after the case had drawn widespread criticism online. It is understood that the restaurant posted a sign in Chinese stating it would not serve customers from China due to "many people being impolite."

In a bilingual statement in both Japanese and Chinese, the firm SASAYA Holdings clarified that the sign was posted without corporate approval and did not reflect the company’s stance.

"The manager of our restaurant 'Yakitori HAYASHIN' took the liberty in displaying a notice refusing entry to specific foreign customers for several days without company authorization," the statement read.

"We have immediately removed the notice and sincerely apologize to all customers who were offended by this action."

The company emphasized its commitment to treating all customers equally, stating, "All our restaurants have always welcomed both domestic and international guests with the highest level of service, and this policy will remain unchanged."

The controversial restaurant, located in Osaka, has reportedly suspended operations since May 12 and has been removed from SASAYA’s official website.

The incident highlights growing tensions in Japan over the surge in foreign tourists, particularly from China.

While many Japanese businesses welcome international visitors to boost the economy, others have expressed frustration over perceived rude behavior, leading to terms like "tourism pollution" to describe disruptive tourist conduct. Chinese tourists, in particular, have often been singled out in such complaints.