Japan is a beautiful country with a rich culture and stunning landscapes, but it is also one of the most natural disaster-prone countries in the world. Whether you are visiting for a short trip or living here long-term, knowing what to do in an emergency is not just helpful—it is a matter of life and death.

Our ultimate goal is to see absolutely zero casualties during natural disasters in Japan. To help achieve this, we have compiled a straightforward, no-nonsense guide on how to protect yourself during earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons.

1. Preparation: Secure Your Information Sources

When a disaster strikes, the biggest threat to foreigners is information isolation—not knowing what is happening or what to do next. Before you do anything else, download these official tools:

• Safety tips App: Supported by the Japan Tourism Agency, this is a must-have app. It pushes early earthquake warnings, tsunami warnings, and severe weather alerts in multiple languages directly to your phone.

• NHK WORLD-JAPAN: Download the app or bookmark the website. NHK is Japan's national broadcaster and provides the most reliable, real-time disaster reporting in English.

2. In Case of an Earthquake: How to React

If you have never experienced an earthquake, a sudden, violent tremor can be terrifying. In Japan, your immediate actions during those first few seconds are critical.

• DROP, COVER, HOLD ON: The moment you feel strong shaking, drop to the floor. Take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to the legs. Protect your head and neck with a bag or cushion. If there is no shelter, crouch low away from windows, glass, or tall shelves.

• STAY INSIDE: Do not rush outside while the ground is shaking. Japanese buildings are designed with strict earthquake resistance standards. Running outside in a panic increases your risk of being hit by falling glass, signs, or roof tiles.

• SECURE EXITS & CHECK FIRE: Once the shaking completely stops, open doors and windows to secure an escape route (door frames can warp during a quake, trapping you inside). If you were using a stove or gas, turn it off immediately.

3. Tsunamis and Evacuation Signs

In coastal areas of Japan, you must always remember this rule: Strong earthquake = Tsunami risk.

Important: If you feel a strong earthquake near the coast, do not wait for an official warning. Run to higher ground immediately.

When navigating to safety, look for these specific green and white signs designed under Japanese industrial standards. It is crucial to understand the difference between the two:

Tsunami Evacuation Area (津波避難場所): This sign shows a person running uphill from a wave. This is a place to flee to temporarily when your life is in immediate danger. Head toward these signs or designated "Tsunami Evacuation Buildings" to escape the water.

Evacuation Shelter (指定避難所): This sign shows a person walking into a building. Shelters (often school gymnasiums or community centers) are places to stay for a certain period after the immediate danger has passed and your home is unsafe to return to.

4. Typhoons and Heavy Rain

Unlike earthquakes, typhoons can be predicted days in advance. However, the speed of Japanese rivers and the risk of landslides can catch foreigners off guard.

• STAY AWAY FROM WATER: Never go to look at rivers, the ocean, or irrigation canals during a typhoon. The water levels rise incredibly fast, and many people lose their lives simply by going to "check" the water.

• STAY INDOORS / EVACUATE EARLY: Stay inside a sturdy building. Avoid underground malls and subway stations, as they can flood rapidly. If authorities issue an evacuation order for your area, move to higher ground or a designated shelter before the weather becomes too severe.

5. Survival Japanese Phrases (やさしい日本語)

In an emergency, the local people around you might not speak English, but they will try to warn you. Memorize or screenshot these life-saving Japanese words so you know what people are shouting:

Being prepared does not mean living in fear; it means having the peace of mind to enjoy everything Japan has to offer safely. Bookmark this page, download the apps, and share this guide with anyone you know visiting Japan!