Earthquakes and tsunamis in Japan: what to do

An earthquake in Japan is a common event: the country records thousands of tremors each year, most too small to feel. Buildings follow some of the strictest construction codes in the world, and warning systems alert people seconds before strong shaking. Knowing a few reflexes makes any experience calmer.

During the shaking

1. Protect yourselfDrop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table and hold on, away from windows and tall furniture.
2. Stay insideDo not rush outside, where falling glass and signs are dangerous. In a hotel, stay in the room until the shaking stops.
3. On a trainHold on firmly. Trains stop automatically and staff give instructions.
4. OutsideMove away from buildings, walls, vending machines and power lines.

After the shaking

Check for injuries and fire, put on shoes to avoid broken glass, and follow instructions from hotel staff or officials. Aftershocks often follow. Keep your phone charged and listen to announcements, which are given in English at major stations and airports.

Tsunami warnings

If you are near the coast and feel strong or long shaking, or if a tsunami warning is issued, move immediately to high ground or upper floors of a designated tsunami evacuation building, marked by signs. Do not go to the shore to watch the sea. Stay until the warning is lifted, as several waves can arrive over hours.

The shindo intensity scale

Japan measures local shaking with the shindo scale, from 0 to 7. Levels 1 to 3 are felt but harmless, level 4 shakes objects, and levels 5 and above can cause damage. The magnitude, by contrast, measures the energy of the earthquake itself.

Alerts and apps

• Emergency alerts: mobile phones on Japanese networks receive Earthquake Early Warnings and tsunami alerts.
• Safety tips app: from the Japan Tourism Agency, alerts in several languages with evacuation advice.
• Japan Meteorological Agency: official information on earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes in English.
• NHK World: news and emergency broadcasts in English.

Preparing for an earthquake in Japan

Note the emergency exits and evacuation map in your hotel room, keep a small torch and water bottle, and save the Japan Visitor Hotline number. Travel insurance with medical cover adds peace of mind. An earthquake in Japan rarely disrupts a trip for long: trains are inspected and resume quickly after strong tremors.

Emergency supplies and shelters

Hotels and public buildings keep emergency supplies, and municipalities designate evacuation shelters, usually schools or community centres, marked with green signs. Following locals and staff to these shelters is the safest option after a major event.

Communicating with family

Phone networks can be saturated after a strong quake. Messaging apps and the NTT disaster message board (171) help share news. Agree in advance on a way to contact relatives at home.

Volcanoes and other alerts

The same official channels issue volcanic warnings, heavy rain alerts and landslide warnings. When visiting volcanic areas such as Mount Aso or Sakurajima, check the alert level before setting out and respect closed zones.

Official source: Japan Tourism Agency, useful information for visitors

Frequently asked questions