Last Updated: Sep 18, 2022

Japan Travel & Natural Disasters

Prepared for the Worst

It’s no secret that Japan is a country that is prone to many natural disasters. The nation has a long history of coping with mother nature’s ire and this in turn has shaped much of the local culture. Moreover, things seem to be getting worse lately and 2018 (when this article was originally written) has been a particularly bad year. Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ve likely heard of at least one of the recent tragedies that has rocked Japan this year. From that earthquake that jolted Hokkaido to the torrential rainfall that threatened to submerge Kansai International Airport, it’s been mighty scary out there lately.

As anyone who has been to Japan already knows, the country is home to dramatic mountain ranges, exquisite onsen, and vast lakes. That said, far fewer are aware that these natural wonders belie a terrible temper. You see, Japan is poised along the so-called “Ring of Fire” and this area’s seismic activity is responsible for much of the nation’s beauty. From ancient times, the Japanese have had to content with Mother Nature’s whims and the ever-present possibility of earthquakes and/or typhoons. As such, the locals are well-adapted to her tantrums. Still, these natural disasters can be cause for concern but with the right preparation…