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Guides & Articles

Practical, English-language disaster preparedness for foreign residents of Japan.

What to Do During an Earthquake in Japan: Foreigner's Survival Guide

Step-by-step: what to do during the shaking, in the first minutes after, and in the days that follow.

Typhoon Season in Japan: When, How to Prepare, What to Expect

When typhoons hit, how to read the 5-level warning scale, and how to prepare your home before the storm.

Emergency Phone Numbers in Japan for Foreigners (2026)

Police, ambulance, fire, English support lines, and embassy guidance — every number to save now.

How to Find Your Evacuation Shelter in Japan (避難所ガイド)

How to locate your shelter, the map symbols, what to bring, and what to expect as a foreigner.

Essential Japanese Phrases for Emergencies

Twenty survival phrases — earthquake, medical, and emergency vocabulary with pronunciation.

After the Earthquake: First 24 Hours Survival Guide for Japan

What to do in the first 24 hours after a major earthquake: water, gas, communication, and shelter.

5 Essential Disaster Apps for Japan (English-Friendly)

Must-have earthquake and typhoon apps for your phone in Japan — all work in English.

Earthquake Insurance in Japan: What Foreigners Need to Know (地震保険)

Does your rental insurance cover earthquakes? Probably not. How 地震保険 works and whether you need it.

Power Outage Survival in Japan: What to Have Ready

How to prepare for and survive a blackout in your apartment — essential gear, food, and tips.

Flood and Heavy Rain Preparation in Japan (水害対策)

Check your hazard map, understand the 5 warning levels, and protect your home from flooding.

Car Emergency Kit for Japan: What to Keep in Your Vehicle

Essential items to keep in your car for earthquakes, typhoons, and winter emergencies.

Best Emergency Food in Japan: What to Stock and Where to Buy

アルファ米, canned bread, and other long-shelf-life options — how much to stock and where to buy.

Start with the essentials: build a kit sized to your household with the Kit Builder.