Beloved Idol Performs Despite Concert Cancellation to 14,000 Empty Seats

Ayumi Hamasaki, the renowned Japanese idol, faced significant challenges during her recent concert tour in China. Despite the cancellation of her Shanghai show due to escalating political tensions, she performed a full concert on November 30, 2025, in front of an empty venue that accommodates 14,000 seats.

Performance Amidst Tension

On November 28, the day prior to the concert, Hamasaki announced the cancellation, attributing the decision to political circumstances between Japan and China. However, she remained determined to perform, stating, “I still firmly believe entertainment should be a bridge that connects people.”

During the concert, she expressed gratitude towards her supporting staff and shared her feelings on Instagram, noting that while the venue was empty, she felt love from fans worldwide. “With 14,000 empty seats but felt so much love from TAs from all over the world, it was one of the most unforgettable shows ever to me,” she wrote.

Background on the Cancellations

The cancellation of Hamasaki’s concert coincided with rising anti-Japan sentiment in China. This tension was ignited by remarks from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, which led to adverse reactions from the Chinese government.

• Japanese Prime Minister’s controversial remarks on November 7.
• China advised citizens against traveling to Japan over “public safety issues.”
• Other events canceled include:
• KOKIA’s concert in Beijing, canceled 30 minutes before showtime.
• JO1’s fan event in Guangzhou, cited as “force majeure.”
• Maki Otsuki’s performance at the Bandai Namco Festival abruptly halted.

Future Implications

Hamasaki’s performance without an audience has sparked discussions among fans, with some speculating the event might serve as content for a Blu-ray or DVD release. This unique approach allows her to continue engaging fans despite the challenges posed by political issues.

As tensions trend in China-Japan relations, how artists navigate these challenges will remain crucial for the music industry. Hamasaki’s commitment to her concert underscores her dedication to bridging cultural gaps through music.