What to Expect: Experiencing an Earthquake in Japan as a Foreigner
Introduction
Japan, known for its frequent seismic activity, experiences earthquakes so regularly that the average resident remains calm even in the face of significant tremors. But how does this cultural resilience impact foreigners who experience an earthquake for the first time? This article explores what to expect and how to react during and after an earthquake in Japan, using the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake as a poignant example.
How Scary It Was
Magnitude: Smaller tremors around 3-4 on the Richter scale are often more like a jolt and can be surprising but usually don't cause panic. However, a stronger earthquake, 5 or above, can be frightening as the ground shakes significantly and objects may fall.
Cultural Context
In Japan, the frequent occurrence of earthquakes means that locals might react calmly, which can be both reassuring and confusing for foreigners who may not know what to expect. Understanding this cultural context helps in navigating the experience more effectively.
What to Do During an Earthquake
Drop, Cover, and Hold On: This is the recommended action during an earthquake. Get low to the ground, protect your head and neck, and take cover under sturdy furniture if possible.
Stay Indoors: If you are inside, it's usually safer to stay there rather than run outside where falling debris can pose a risk.
Stay Clear of Doorways: Contrary to popular belief, doorways are not necessarily the safest place to be during an earthquake. It's better to get under a table or desk instead.
Follow Local Protocols: In Japan, buildings are designed to withstand earthquakes, and there are often clear safety protocols in place. Following the lead of locals can be helpful.
Stay Informed: Use apps or local news to get updates about the earthquake and any aftershocks.
A Personal Account: The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake
Initial Experience: On March 11, 2011, I was working at an automobile manufacturer's facility just outside Tokyo. The earthquake, which was the largest I had ever experienced, wasn't all that scary thanks to years of living in Japan. We all dove under our desks and waited a minute or two for it to be over.
Evacuation and Aftermath: The loudspeaker announced that we should evacuate the building because of possible aftershocks. I went to my locker to change into street clothes, and just as I was changing, a big aftershock hit. I grabbed my stuff and finished changing in the parking lot. It was a 20-minute walk to the train station, and I was devastated to see a huge tidal wave on TV washing away a town just before I reached the station.
Scarcity and Unease: The trains were not running, and I found myself walking across Tokyo, with people hoarding goods and making me feel as if I were in a war zone. I considered buying a bicycle while that was still possible.
Resolution: After about 4 hours of walking, I reached Shinjuku train station downtown, where I eventually caught a train running along a less affected route. At another facility at the same manufacturer, tragedy struck when someone was killed by falling equipment, and a friend was showered with broken glass in a stairwell.
Conclusion: While there was not that much damage to Tokyo, thousands of people living near the epicenter were killed, primarily by the tsunami. Understanding the local culture and safety measures can help mitigate fear and enhance preparedness in such situations.