Latest Japan travel advice after tsunami warning is issued

WorldTravel
20 Apr 2026 • 6:25 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Latest Japan travel advice after tsunami warning is issued

  • A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off Japan's Sanriku coast at 4.53pm local time, triggering tsunami warnings for the eastern coastline.
  • Tsunami waves of up to three metres are anticipated in parts of Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures, with initial waves already recorded in Iwate.
  • Japan's prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, established an emergency task force and urged residents in the affected areas to evacuate to safety.
  • The UK Foreign Office has not issued new travel advice for Japan, though its general guidance highlights the country's location in a major earthquake zone.
  • While most flights to and from Japan are operating as scheduled, bullet train services between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori have been suspended.

IN FULL