Heading to Japan? How Hongkongers can prepare amid earthquake concerns

SCMP | July 3, 2025, 10 p.m. | Original

Predictions of a mega-earthquake from manga have caused some tourists to be wary of travelling to Japan this month. Photo: EPA/EFE

and

Recent rumours about a “megaquake” hitting Japan on July 5, stemming from a manga artist whose earlier prediction in 2011 reportedly came true, have caused some concern among Hong Kong residents planning to travel to the country this month.

While Japanese authorities have dismissed the claims, stating that earthquakes cannot be predicted with current scientific knowledge and can occur anywhere at any time, even outside Japan, the Post has gathered expert advice for travellers on how to cope should an earthquake hit.

1. How do I prepare for an earthquake?

The Hong Kong Observatory recommends that travellers download earthquake warning applications. The Japan National Tourism Organisation offers an app called “Safety Tips”, which provides push notifications for early earthquake warnings in English, Chinese and other languages, along with general safety advice.

The “Safety Tips” app is available on and devices.
For accidents and emergencies in Japan, tourists can call 050-3816-2787 for help in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese. Hongkongers overseas requiring help can visit the .

Additionally, travellers should ask their hotels or residences about emergency escape routes in case of an earthquake.

‘13’ or ‘27’ lovers? Rodrigo Duterte kisses goodbye to his womanising days Human heart structure beats 21 days in pig embryo in Chinese chimera study