Earthquake
Japan is an earthquake-prone country. It is essential to prepare for earthquakes on a regular basis so that you do not panic when one occurs.
For information on the mechanism and magnitude of earthquakes, click here.
“About Earthquakes in Japan” Tokyo Intercultural Portal Site
Shinjuku City also has a disaster preparedness handbook—which describes daily preparations and appropriate actions to take if a disaster occurs—posted on the official website in multiple languages.
Disaster preparedness handbook “Preparing for Disasters”
Disaster Preparedness Activities
Disaster preparedness resident organizations to coordinate neighborhood activities when a disaster strikes are organized by community.
It is a good idea to participate in the disaster preparedness drills conducted by disaster preparedness resident organizations, to be constantly prepared and to become familiar with the community disaster preparedness system.
In addition, the city uses a seismic simulation vehicle to conduct earthquake experience events at disaster drills and other community events.
For more information, click here.
Rental of disaster preparedness DVDs
DVDs and videos are available for rent as reference materials for spreading information on disaster preparedness and preparing residents for disasters.
For more information, click here.
Note: The earthquake awareness DVD “Can You Survive!?—A Major Earthquake Strikes Shinjuku” (approx. 18 min.) is available in English, Chinese and Korean.
Evacuation in the Case of a Major Earthquake
Temporary Gathering Site
A temporary gathering site is a place to stay temporarily to grasp the situation before going to evacuation sites and evacuation areas.
Evacuation Areas
Large parks and public squares are designated as evacuation areas so that you can protect yourself from fires when a major earthquake strikes.
Evacuation Sites
These are locations for evacuation and temporary accommodation if your house is destroyed, or if you are unable to live in your own home due to a fire or other disaster. They serve as centers to provide information, distribute food and perform first aid.
For information about evacuation areas and evacuation sites, click here.
When and Where to Evacuate
- When the tremor stops, proceed to a temporary gathering site designated in advance by disaster preparedness resident organizations, usually a nearby park or an empty space, to grasp the situation.
- If a large fire breaks out that threatens the safety of your residence and the nearby evacuation site, go to an evacuation area.
- If your residence or a nearby building collapses or burns, preventing you from returning home, go to an evacuation site (e.g. a school) and stay there.