Earthquake Survival Tips for Visitors to Japan |

Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. If you are visiting and feel a sudden shake, don’t panic. Stay calm, protect yourself, and follow these safety tips depending on where you are.

🕒 What to Do in the First 1–2 Minutes After an Earthquake

In Busy City Areas

Stay calm and don’t panic.
Protect your head with a bag or jacket.
Watch out for falling signs and glass.
Move to an open area like a park if possible.
If you can’t find open space, enter a newer, earthquake-resistant building made of reinforced concrete.

In Residential Areas

Stay away from gates, walls, and fences—they may collapse.
Be careful of falling roof tiles and glass.

At a Train Station

Stay calm and follow staff instructions.
Move away from the edge of the platform.
Hold onto a nearby pillar or crouch down.
Never go onto the train tracks.

Inside a Train

Hold onto a strap or handrail.
Protect your head and keep your body low.
Follow the crew’s instructions.

While Driving

Turn on hazard lights and slow down.
Pull over to the left side of the road and stop the car.
Turn off the engine and listen to the radio for updates.
If you must leave the car, leave the key inside and don’t lock the doors. Leave a note with your contact info.

In Underground Malls

Stay calm—even if the power goes out.
Wait near a pillar or wall.
Don’t rush to emergency exits. Walk calmly.

In Theaters or Halls

Listen to staff or announcements.
Protect your head.
Don’t rush to exits or stairs.

In a Department Store or Supermarket

Watch out for falling items.
Avoid large shelves or showcases.
Move near pillars or stair landings.
Follow staff instructions.

At an Airport

Watch for falling glass or ceiling panels.
Protect your head with your bag.

Inside an Elevator

If you feel shaking, press all floor buttons.
Get off at the first floor that stops.
If stuck, use the emergency intercom to call for help.

Near the Coast

Immediately move to higher ground.
Help elderly or disabled people evacuate.
Stay away from the coast until tsunami warnings are lifted.

In Mountain Areas

Quickly move away from slopes or cliffs—landslides are a danger.
Be alert for aftershocks or heavy rain that may cause landslides.

🕒 3 Minutes After the Earthquake

Check if anyone is injured.
If you see fire, warn others and try to put it out if it’s small.
Help people who need assistance.
Don’t use elevators—they may stop in an aftershock.
Keep your hands free by carrying a backpack, not suitcases.

🕔 5 Minutes After the Earthquake

Don’t believe rumors. Get updates from TV, radio, or official websites.
If you feel unsafe, evacuate on foot.
Avoid using cars—they block emergency vehicles and may get stuck in debris.

🕑 10 Minutes to Several Hours Later

Work with others to help extinguish fires or help injured people.
Do not go inside damaged buildings—they may collapse at any time.

📅 3 Days After the Earthquake

Emergency services may not reach you for a few days. Use your emergency supplies.
Continue to stay alert for aftershocks.
Get accurate information from reliable sources. Don’t believe unverified posts or rumors.

🚶‍♀️ Tips When Evacuating

Before leaving your room, check for fire and turn off the circuit breaker if possible.
Leave a note at your door with your name and destination.
Use multiple ways to stay in touch—phone, messaging apps, or social media.
Avoid going alone—stay with a group or neighbors.
Avoid narrow streets, walls, riversides, or other dangerous areas.
Don’t evacuate by car—it may block rescue vehicles.

✅ Stay Calm, Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Earthquakes can be frightening, but by knowing what to do and staying calm, you can protect yourself and others. Keep this guide in your phone or travel bag just in case.

Difference between Magnitude and Seismic scale in Japan

Other

Earthquake Survival Tips for Visitors to Japan