What to Do in an Earthquake

• Drop to the floor, take cover, and hold on to something sturdy.
• Stay away from windows, mirrors, and tall furniture that could fall or shatter.
• If you're in a kitchen, move away from stoves and open flames.
• Do not rush to the door or outside while the ground is still shaking — most injuries happen from falling objects indoors.
• If you're outside, move away from buildings, walls, vending machines, and power lines.

• Stay calm. Aftershocks are common — expect more shaking in the following hours or days.
• Do not use elevators. Use stairs.
• Check for gas leaks, fires, or damage before moving further inside a building.
• Put on shoes if you have them — broken glass on the floor is a common hazard.
• If your building is damaged or you're told to evacuate, move calmly to your nearest designated emergency evacuation site (see the map).
• Follow instructions from staff, police, or official announcements over your own judgment when in doubt.

110 — Police (crime, accidents, missing persons)

119 — Fire and ambulance (fire, medical emergency)

Both are free to call from any phone. Basic English support is often available, but speaking slowly and clearly helps. If you can, share your location using this site's locate button or a maps app while on the call.

• Phone lines to affected areas are often congested after a major earthquake. NTT's disaster message service (dial 171) lets you record and check safety messages when regular calls aren't going through.
• If you're unable to return to your accommodation, contact your country's embassy or consulate in Japan — they can help with emergency travel documents, communication with family, and evacuation support for their nationals.
• Keep your passport, accommodation address, and a portable charger with you when you can — these make embassy contact and hotel check-in easier after a disruption.