An emergency alert suddenly sounds on your phone. Seconds later, the building starts shaking.
For many foreigners living in Japan, earthquakes are the most frightening natural disaster.
But what matters most is the first 30 seconds — and the 30 minutes after.
This guide explains exactly what to do during an earthquake in Japan, based on real experiences from major disasters.
目次
1. The First 30 Seconds: Immediate Actions
What You Should Do
- Protect your head (use your bag, arms, or cushion)
- Get under a sturdy table or desk
- Stay away from windows and shelves
- Do not move until the shaking stops
What You Should NOT Do
- Run outside immediately
- Use elevators
- Panic and push others
In Japan, buildings are designed to withstand earthquakes. Staying inside is often safer than running outside.
2. Real Case Study: The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake
During the 2011 disaster, transportation in Tokyo completely stopped.
- Millions became stranded commuters
- Taxi lines stretched for hours
- Mobile networks became congested
- Many foreigners could not understand Japanese-only announcements
The correct actions at that time:
- Stay at your office or school
- Avoid unnecessary movement
- Send short text messages instead of calling
Trying to rush home made situations more dangerous.
3. Real Case Study: The 2018 Osaka Earthquake
The Osaka earthquake struck during morning rush hour.
- All major train lines stopped
- Elevators shut down
- Gas supply was suspended in over 100,000 households
- Supermarkets quickly ran out of bottled water
However, many train services partially resumed the same day, and utilities were restored within days.
Japan’s infrastructure is built with earthquake resilience in mind.
4. What to Do in Different Situations
At Home
- Take cover under a table
- Move away from glass
- Check for gas leaks after shaking stops
On a Train
- Hold onto straps or rails
- Follow announcements
- Do not exit onto tracks without instruction
At Work or School
- Follow evacuation instructions
- Do not leave without permission
- Stay calm and cooperate
Near the Coast (Very Important)
- If shaking is strong, move immediately to higher ground
- Do not go to the beach to watch waves
- Do not wait for official confirmation if danger seems imminent
5. The First 30 Minutes After Shaking Stops
- Check reliable news sources
- Watch for aftershocks
- Avoid elevators
- Contact family briefly via text
After major earthquakes, aftershocks are common. Stay cautious.
6. Common Concerns Among Foreigners
- Will buildings collapse? Modern Japanese buildings follow strict seismic codes.
- Will food run out? Short-term shortages may occur, but supply chains recover quickly.
- Can foreigners use evacuation shelters? Yes. Shelters are open regardless of nationality.
7. Prepare Before It Happens
- Store at least 3 days of water
- Keep portable food
- Prepare a power bank
- Keep some cash
- Make copies of your residence card and passport
- Know your nearest evacuation area
Conclusion
When an earthquake happens in Japan:
- Stay calm
- Protect your head
- Wait until shaking stops
- Check reliable information
- Avoid unnecessary movement
Japan experiences earthquakes, but it is also one of the most prepared countries in the world.
Knowledge is your strongest protection.
Next: How to Understand Japanese Emergency Alerts and Disaster Apps.
Continue the Series: Disaster Preparedness in Japan (For Foreigners)
After learning earthquake safety actions, the next step is understanding emergency alerts and disaster apps.
Previous Article:
EP1: Why Japan Has So Many Natural Disasters (For Foreigners)
Next Article:
EP3: Japanese Emergency Alerts & Disaster Apps Guide
Complete Guide:
Disaster Preparedness in Japan for Foreigners – Complete Guide