Japan Megaquake Fears Reignited by Viral Manga Series: Here’s What You Need to Know

Japan Megaquake Fears Spark Travel Cancellations Over Manga Prediction

Japan, a country familiar with seismic activity, is once again at the center of speculation and anxiety as “Japan Megaquake Fears” sweep across parts of Asia, primarily driven by a viral manga prediction. While scientists and government officials insist that earthquakes cannot be accurately predicted, rumors of a catastrophic event slated for July 5, 2025, have caused a significant stir among travelers—particularly in Hong Kong.

Japan Megaquake Fears Trigger Tourist Panic

The recent surge in Japan Megaquake fears is attributed to the manga Watashi ga Mita Mirai (The Future I Saw: Complete Edition) by Japanese artist Ryo Tatsuki. First released in 2021, the graphic novel references a major catastrophe happening around July 5, 2025. Although the manga does not specify the nature of the disaster, many readers have linked the forecast to the long-feared Nankai Trough megaquake.

This storyline has gained unexpected traction, prompting thousands of tourists—especially from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea—to cancel or postpone their summer travel plans. According to reports, inbound travel from Hong Kong alone dropped by 11% in May, and bookings from the region fell drastically, especially in southwestern Japanese areas like Tottori.

Scientific Response to Japan Megaquake Fears

Despite the frenzy, Japan’s Meteorological Agency and other scientific bodies continue to assert that earthquakes are unpredictable. Ryoichi Nomura, Director-General of the Japan Meteorological Agency, dismissed the manga-based prophecy as a “hoax,” emphasizing that current scientific methods do not allow the prediction of the exact time or magnitude of seismic events.

However, a government panel did warn earlier this year that there is an 80% chance of a powerful 8.0–9.0 magnitude earthquake striking the Nankai Trough region within the next 30 years. This official estimate has only amplified existing Japan Megaquake fears.

The Origin of the July 5 Date

Ryo Tatsuki, the manga author, gained attention after her earlier prediction in a 1999 version of the same manga coincided with the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. This eerie parallel has fueled the belief that her latest vision may hold truth.

In The Future I Saw, Tatsuki claims that on July 5, 2025, “the ocean floor between Japan and the Philippines will crack, creating a massive tsunami that will devastate Pacific Rim countries.” The manga depicts waves three times larger than those during the 2011 disaster. This specific claim has intensified Japan Megaquake fears among superstitious readers and followers of alternative belief systems like feng shui.

Impact on Tourism and Travel Industry

The impact of the Japan Megaquake fears on tourism is measurable. Airlines like Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express have either canceled or reduced flight frequencies to Japan for July and August, citing reduced demand. Travel agencies have slashed prices for package tours by up to 20% to counter the slump.

Steve Huen, Executive Director of EGL Tours in Hong Kong, said, “Tour prices that used to exceed HK$10,000 are now as low as HK$7,000–HK$8,000 due to the panic.” Even as Japan experiences a broader tourism boom driven by a weaker yen, these specific fears are dragging down numbers from major source markets.

Government Response and Public Reassurance

Japanese authorities have launched campaigns to debunk the pseudoscience and reassure the public. However, their efforts have met limited success, particularly among foreign travelers. Local governments and tourism boards continue to promote safety and preparedness, highlighting Japan’s rigorous building codes and emergency response systems.

Cathay Pacific’s budget airline HK Express reported a short-term dip in bookings but remains optimistic. “Interest will rebound once the rumors subside,” a spokesperson said.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

Not all travelers are deterred by the Japan Megaquake fears. Bea Siu, a public relations executive from Hong Kong, said she booked a July trip to Osaka to celebrate her birthday, citing a lack of scientific basis for the predictions.

“I’m not worried. These prophecies have never come true in the past,” Siu noted.

Nonetheless, others like Brian Lee, who canceled his Japan trip, argue that it’s better to be cautious. “There’s no need to risk one’s life based on a hunch,” he said.

Cultural Influence of Disaster Prophecies

The Japan Megaquake fears reveal how deeply ingrained disaster-related anxieties are within the culture. While science-based agencies stress logical preparedness, many people still turn to spiritual leaders, psychics, and even manga for guidance.

In Hong Kong, TV personalities like “Master Seven” have amplified warnings, urging citizens to avoid travel to Japan during April, May, and July. While not rooted in scientific evidence, such advice resonates with a portion of the public, further fueling the ongoing wave of Japan Megaquake fears.

Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?

While it’s natural to feel unsettled by ominous predictions, the consensus among experts is clear—there is no way to predict earthquakes accurately. Travelers are advised to rely on verified information from government and scientific organizations, not viral media.

The Japan Megaquake fears serve as a stark reminder of the powerful influence of media and superstition in shaping public perception. Whether or not July 5 passes uneventfully, the incident highlights the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making in the face of sensational claims.

What Happens Next?

The Japan Meteorological Agency and global seismic experts will continue to monitor activity along the Nankai Trough and other fault lines. Meanwhile, Japanese authorities urge residents and travelers alike to stay informed and prepared—but not to panic.

As Japan remains one of the world’s top travel destinations, it’s essential to strike a balance between caution and irrational fear. After all, while the earth may shake, reason should not.

Read more: Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Recall