Japan and Natural Disasters: What Every Visitor Should Know

Here is some essential HELP information we want every visitor to Japan to know in case you experience an earthquake or any natural disaster during your stay.

Yesterday, a magnitude 3.4 earthquake occurred in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto region. And today, at 10:18 AM on the 6th, a much stronger M6.4 earthquake struck Tottori and Shimane Prefectures, triggering loud alert sounds on TVs and smartphones that woke many people up.

Earthquakes • Typhoons • Tsunamis • Volcanic Eruptions — and How to Stay Safe

Japan is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world.

Yet it is also a land shaped by powerful natural forces — earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and volcanic activity occur more frequently here than in many other parts of the world.

For travelers and international residents, understanding what to do during an emergency can make all the difference. This simple guide will help you stay calm, informed, and protected during any unexpected situation.

1️⃣ Earthquakes — What to Do Immediately

Japan experiences thousands of small earthquakes every year. Most are harmless, but some can be strong and sudden.

If shaking starts:

• Drop, Cover, Hold On — get under a sturdy table.

• Protect your head and neck.

• Stay away from windows and falling objects.

• Do not run outside until the shaking stops.

After shaking ends:

• Check for fire.

• Open a door to secure an exit path.

• Take essentials (passport, phone, medicine).

• Follow instructions from local authorities.

2️⃣ Typhoons — Staying Safe During Severe Storms

Typhoons typically occur between May and October, bringing strong winds and heavy rain.

Before the storm:

• Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

• Charge your phone and prepare flashlights.

• Secure windows and balconies.

During the storm:

• Do not go outside — flying debris is dangerous.

• Stay away from rivers and coastal areas.

• Follow updates on NHK World or the Safety Tips app.

3️⃣ Tsunamis — Move Quickly and Calmly

After a strong or long earthquake near the coast, a tsunami may follow.

If you are near the shore and feel strong shaking:

• Move to higher ground immediately

• Do not wait for an official warning

• Follow green “Evacuation Route / 避難経路” signs

• Stay away from the beach until authorities declare safety

Tsunamis come in multiple waves — the first one may not be the largest.

4️⃣ Volcanic Eruptions — Understanding Local Alerts

Japan has more than 100 active volcanoes, including Sakurajima, Aso, and Fuji.

If an alert is issued:

• Follow evacuation or restricted-area instructions immediately.

• Stay away from valleys and riverbeds.

• If ash is falling:

• Wear a mask and protective glasses

• Avoid driving (visibility becomes poor)

• Keep windows closed

Volcanic alerts are detailed and reliable — follow them closely.

Sakurajima, Kagoshima

🗣️ Reliable Multilingual Information Sources

• NHK World Japan — live disaster news in English. NHK WORLD-JAPAN is the

international service of Japan's public media organization NHK. It provides the latest

information on Japan and Asia through television, radio and online to a global

audience.

• Safety Tips App — multilingual alerts (earthquake, tsunami, weather), runs by Japan

Tourism Agency

• Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) — official warnings

• Local government websites

• Japan Visitor Hotline (Telephone #): 050-3816-2787

(English / Chinese / Korean, 24 hours)

🧭 If You Need to Evacuate

• Follow green signs: Evacuation Area / 避難場所

• Bring only essentials: passport, phone, medicine, water

• Do not use elevators

• Stay with local residents and follow instructions from authorities

💬 A Message from Zeppin

Japan’s disaster response system is one of the most advanced in the world.

If an emergency occurs during your stay, remember:

Stay calm.

Stay informed.

Follow official guidance.

ZeppinFromJapan.com will continue providing clear, multilingual information to ensure every visitor can experience Japan safely and confidently.