When a disaster happens in Japan, foreign residents often face difficulties that local residents do not.
- Emergency information is only in Japanese
- Evacuation shelters are unfamiliar
- Transportation stops suddenly
- Utility information is hard to understand
During major disasters such as the 2011 earthquake and the 2018 Osaka earthquake, many foreigners experienced these same problems.
The good news is that most of these problems can be solved with preparation.
This guide explains the most common problems foreigners face during disasters in Japan and practical solutions.
目次
1. Emergency Information Is Only in Japanese
This is the biggest problem for many foreigners.
Important information often appears only in Japanese:
- Earthquake alerts
- Evacuation orders
- Water distribution locations
- Gas and electricity restoration updates
Real Example: 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake
Many foreigners in Tokyo reported that television and announcements were only in Japanese. Some people became anxious because they could not understand radiation-related information.
This confusion caused unnecessary fear and misinformation.
Solutions
- Install English disaster apps
- Check English news sources such as NHK WORLD
- Use official government websites
2. Not Knowing Where to Evacuate
Many foreigners are unsure about evacuation shelters.
- Can foreigners use shelters?
- Is registration required?
- Is there a cost?
Real Example
After the 2011 earthquake, some foreigners stayed at home because they were unsure if evacuation shelters were available to them.
Evacuation shelters are open to everyone regardless of nationality.
Solutions
- Check hazard maps in advance
- Identify the nearest evacuation shelter
- Learn evacuation routes
3. Confusion at Evacuation Shelters
Evacuation shelters can feel unfamiliar to foreigners.
- Shoes must be removed indoors
- Sleeping on floors is common
- Limited privacy
- Food distribution lines
- Instructions often in Japanese
Solutions
- Follow instructions from staff
- Ask: “Is there anyone who speaks English?”
- Bring basic supplies such as blankets and hygiene items
4. Transportation Stops Suddenly
After major earthquakes, trains often stop.
Real Example: 2011 Earthquake
Millions of people in Tokyo became stranded commuters.
Some people walked more than 10 kilometers to return home.
Foreigners often struggled with navigation and accommodation.
Solutions
- Do not rush home immediately
- Stay at work or school if it is safe
- Send short messages instead of calling
5. Utility Outage Information Is Hard to Understand
Information about electricity, gas and water outages is often provided only in Japanese.
Real Example: Osaka Earthquake
Many foreigners did not understand gas service suspension notices or restoration schedules.
Solutions
- Check city government websites
- Use disaster apps
- Follow reliable news sources
6. Electronic Payments May Not Work
Power outages can make electronic payments unavailable.
- Credit cards may not work
- IC cards may not work
- Mobile payments may not work
Real Example: Osaka Earthquake
Many stores accepted cash only, and some ATMs stopped working.
Solutions
- Keep emergency cash (10,000–30,000 yen)
- Prepare coins as well
7. Misinformation and Rumors
Misinformation spreads quickly during disasters.
Real Example: 2011 Disaster
False information about radiation and food safety spread widely on social media.
Solutions
- Use reliable sources such as NHK and government websites
- Verify information before sharing
8. Isolation and Anxiety
Foreign residents often experience stronger feelings of isolation during disasters.
- Family members live overseas
- Limited local support network
Solutions
- Build relationships with neighbors
- Share contact information with friends
- Join local communities
Conclusion
Most disaster problems foreigners face in Japan come from lack of information.
Preparation and knowledge make a big difference.
Disaster readiness means:
- Preparation
- Knowledge
- Connections
Understanding these points will make living in Japan safer and less stressful.
You Have Completed the Core Disaster Guide
You now understand the most important disaster preparedness knowledge for living safely in Japan.
Previous Article:
EP4: Emergency Kit Checklist in Japan (Essential Supplies)
Start From the Beginning:
EP1: Why Japan Has So Many Natural Disasters (For Foreigners)
Complete Guide:
Disaster Preparedness in Japan for Foreigners – Complete Guide
Preparation + Knowledge = Safety in Japan