Ayumi Hamasaki cancels Macau concert amid diplomatic tensions

Japanese pop icon Ayumi Hamasaki has called off her upcoming concert in Macau, citing ongoing diplomatic strains between Japan and China.

The performance, scheduled for January 10 at The Venetian Arena, was set to be the final stop on her Asia tour. The cancellation comes after her December show in Shanghai was also abruptly canceled.

Hamasaki addressed the decision on her official Instagram account on Tuesday, expressing regret to fans. “My entire team and I will no longer be able to bring you the performance,” she wrote. “I sincerely apologize to everyone who was looking forward to it. However, I will never give up on the future. Our bond is eternal.”

According to a Japanese-language statement posted on her social media, the Macau concert was canceled following consultations between her record label and the event organizers. No further performances have been announced in the region at this time.

The Shanghai cancellation occurred last month, when Hamasaki shared images of herself performing in an empty venue. Organizers reportedly requested the show be called off.