How an apocalyptic comic book prediction hit Japan’s tourism industry

LocalTravel
20 Jun 2025 • 11:09 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A 1999 manga comic, The Future I Saw by Ryo Tatsuki, has caused a significant drop in travel bookings to Japan due to its prediction of a major earthquake and tsunami on July 5, 2025.
  • Hong Kong travel agencies reported up to a 50 per cent drop in Japan bookings during the Easter holiday, with some agencies seeing up to 80 per cent fewer inquiries.
  • The comic gained a cult following after Tatsuki's previous prediction coincided with the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, leading to amplified warnings on social media by psychics and influencers.
  • Despite scientific consensus that earthquakes cannot be precisely predicted, and warnings from Japanese officials against unscientific rumors, the fear-mongering has impacted tourism from China, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam.
  • The manga artist, Ryo Tatsuki, has reportedly urged travellers not to be "overly swayed" by her dreams and to act appropriately based on expert opinions.

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