Japan with family: an earthquake plan before moving in
Alerts, communication and a meeting point: practical preparation without panic.
Use specific information
JMA publishes earthquake information and tsunami warnings. It is an operational information source, not a prediction for a particular apartment. Find the municipal hazard map and evacuation locations for the home’s actual address; coastal and inland locations should not be treated alike.
Agree on a household plan
Before moving, save the address, school contacts and an alternative meeting point offline. Ask the school who may collect your child and how it communicates changes. Do not make internet access the only communication channel. Give each adult the plan and explain it to children in age-appropriate language.
Your first half-hour at home
Ask the owner to show exits, utility shut-offs and building instructions. Keep essential documents and medication easy to locate. Photograph the building guidance and translate unclear points in advance. During an event, follow current local-authority instructions rather than an old travel post.
Keep this checklist
- Address-specific map, school plan, meeting point and offline contacts.
- JMA alerts and municipal instructions accessible.
Sources and review date
Reviewed 2026-09-13Editorial practical guidance; individual legal and tax circumstances require a separate assessment.