From The Great Kantō to Hanshin earthquakes: Timeline of Japan's major earthquakes and tsunamis

Time of India

30-07-2025

Japan's major earthquakes and tsunamis: Japan is no stranger to powerful earthquakes and devastating tsunamis. Sitting at the meeting point of multiple tectonic plates, including the Pacific, Philippine, and Eurasian plates, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. While Japan has developed one of the most advanced earthquake preparedness systems in the world, history shows how destructive these natural disasters can be. This timeline covers the most significant earthquakes and tsunami events in Japan, including recent warnings caused by the powerful earthquake in Russia.
Russia Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warnings for Japan (2025)
In July 2025, a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. The quake occurred 133 kilometres southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky at a depth of 74 km, making it the most powerful earthquake in the region since 1952. It triggered tsunami alerts across the northern Pacific, reaching as far as Alaska, Hawaii, and even coastal areas in New Zealand.
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The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed a 40-centimetre tsunami hit Tokachi in Hokkaido. Although the tsunami's impact was minimal in Japan, the alert served as a reminder of the country's vulnerability. Japan, ever prepared, issued local warnings and monitored the situation closely.
Japan's Seismic Location and Frequent Earthquakes
Japan lies along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where the Pacific, Philippine Sea, Okhotsk, and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. As a result, the nation experiences around 1,500 earthquakes every year. Many of these quakes occur beneath the ocean and often result in tsunamis. Below is a detailed timeline of the most devastating earthquakes and tsunami events in Japan's history.
Early Earthquakes Before 1900
599 Nara Earthquake
The first recorded earthquake in Japan struck in 599 AD in Nara Prefecture during the reign of Empress Suiko. Although there is no exact magnitude data, historical texts mention that many buildings collapsed in the Yamato province.
1896 Meiji Sanriku Earthquake and Tsunami
On June 15, 1896, an 8.5-magnitude earthquake off the Sanriku coast generated a towering tsunami, with waves reaching up to 38 metres. This disaster claimed over 22,000 lives and destroyed nearly 9,000 homes, making it one of Japan's deadliest events. In response, the Imperial Earthquake Investigation Committee was founded in 1892 to study seismic activity.
The Great Kantō Earthquake (1923)
On 1 September 1923, a 7.9-magnitude quake rocked the Kantō region near Tokyo. Known as the Great Kantō Earthquake, it killed over 100,000 people and left 1.5 million homeless. Fires broke out in Tokyo and Yokohama, causing additional devastation. This quake highlighted Japan's need for better preparedness and led to the establishment of the Earthquake Research Institute in 1925.
1933 Showa Sanriku Earthquake and Tsunami
An 8.4-magnitude earthquake struck the Sanriku coast on March 2, 1933, triggering another massive tsunami. Waves reached 28.7 metres, wiping out coastal villages and killing more than 3,000 people. Following this event, Japan began focusing on tsunami forecasting and relocated vulnerable coastal communities.
The Great Hanshin Earthquake (1995)
On January 17, 1995, a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the city of Kobe and surrounding areas. Known as the Great Hanshin Earthquake, it resulted in over 6,000 deaths and injured more than 415,000 people. Although it didn't cause a tsunami, it exposed structural weaknesses in urban buildings. The disaster prompted Japan to revise building codes and enhance emergency response systems.
The Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (2011)
On March 11, 2011, Japan faced its most powerful earthquake ever recorded—a 9.1-magnitude quake off the Tōhoku coast. The resulting tsunami produced waves as high as 40.5 metres, destroying towns in Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima prefectures.
Nearly 18,000 people lost their lives, most due to drowning. Over 123,000 homes were demolished. The tsunami also led to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, where reactor meltdowns caused a radiation leak. Economic damage was estimated at $220 billion, making it the most expensive natural disaster in history.
Kumamoto Earthquakes (2016)
In April 2016, a series of strong tremors struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southern Japan. The most severe had a magnitude of 7.0, killing 228 people and injuring more than 2,700. Around 200,000 homes were damaged or destroyed. While there was no tsunami, landslides and collapsed structures caused severe destruction. The event reinforced the need for retrofitting older buildings and refining Japan's early warning system.
How Japan Prepares for Earthquakes and Tsunamis
Japan is considered a global leader in disaster readiness. Here are some of the key systems in place:
Early warning alerts: Mobile phones across Japan receive real-time earthquake alerts, often giving residents several seconds to prepare.
Strong building regulations: New buildings must comply with seismic codes, allowing them to sway rather than collapse.
Tsunami defences: Coastal areas are protected by seawalls up to 12 metres high.
Education and drills: Disaster response is taught from a young age, with frequent community drills.
Technology and apps: Tools like Yurekuru and Safety Tips keep both residents and tourists informed during emergencies.
Automatic systems: Gas lines shut off and elevators stop automatically when tremors are detected, reducing further risk.
Japan's Ongoing Resilience and Global Influence
From ancient quakes in 599 to the recent earthquake in Russia that triggered tsunami warnings in Japan in 2025, the country's history is a testament to endurance and innovation. Major events like the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Great Hanshin Earthquake, and the Showa Sanriku tsunami have shaped national policy and technology. Today, Japan's preparedness serves as a model for the rest of the world.
Whether you're a local or a traveller, knowing this history ensures greater awareness and safety in one of the world's most seismic regions.
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