Hello, this is the ShimaSuki editorial team.
In this guide, we will introduce useful websites and apps to help you in case of major disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions during your trip to Japan. Preparing in advance is key to staying calm in unpredictable situations while traveling.
Keep this guide for future reference!
Top 3 Recommended Apps to Install
Safety Tips
An app created under the supervision of the Japan Tourism Agency, designed for foreign tourists visiting Japan. It provides disaster-related information in 14 languages (15 language variations). The app is available for free.
Download the app：https://www.rcsc.co.jp/safety-tips-en
VoiceTra
A voice translation app that translates your speech into foreign languages. It supports 31 languages and is completely free to use.
Download the app：https://voicetra.nict.go.jp/en/index.html
NHK WORLD-JAPAN
An app provided by Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK, offering news from Japan and Asia in 18 languages. It also provides emergency alerts for earthquakes and tsunamis.
Download the app：https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/app/
Top 3 Websites to Check
Japan Meteorological Agency (Disaster Information)
A website operated by the Japan Meteorological Agency that provides disaster-related information. It is accessible via smartphones.
Official website：https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Disaster Prevention Portal)
A disaster prevention information website operated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan. It provides real-time updates on disaster situations and is accessible via smartphones.
Official website：https://www.mlit.go.jp/en/
NHK WORLD-JAPAN
A news website operated by NHK, Japan’s public broadcaster. It provides disaster information and the latest news updates, accessible via smartphones.
Official website：https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/
What to Do in the Event of a Disaster
In the event of a disaster, first obtain the latest and most accurate information. Then, move quickly to a safe location.
Experiencing a disaster in an unfamiliar place can be overwhelming. Make sure to obtain reliable and up-to-date information from trusted sources and prioritize your safety.
