A surge in earthquake-related predictions, originating from a Japanese manga, psychics, and feng shui masters, has sparked widespread fear among tourists, particularly in East Asia, leading to a wave of cancellations and delays in travel to Japan.
The anxiety stems largely from The Future I Saw, a 1999 comic by Japanese manga artist Ryo Tatsuki, whose “dream-based” predictions have garnered a cult following. The manga famously warned of a major disaster in March 2011, coinciding with the deadly Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that devastated northern Japan. Tatsuki’s latest edition, released in 2021, ominously predicts another massive quake on July 5, 2025.
The cover of Japanese comic book, “The Future I Saw (Complete Version)”.
Mai Takiguchi (COURTESY)
Despite reassurances from seismologists and the Japanese government that earthquake prediction remains scientifically unreliable, fears have been amplified by viral posts and speculation online. A Hong Kong psychic claimed a massive quake would strike Tokyo Bay in April, while feng shui master, Master Seven advised avoiding Japan altogether starting in April, further stoking public panic.
Travel agencies across East Asia report significant drops in bookings. WWPKG, a Hong Kong-based agency, said trips to Japan during Easter fell by half, with continued declines expected. Most of the hesitation comes from travelers in mainland China and Hong Kong, which rank among Japan’s top tourist sources. Social media in Vietnam and Thailand have also seen a flood of warnings urging tourists to postpone their visits.
Still, not all travelers are deterred. Japan saw a record 10.5 million visitors in the first quarter of 2025. Tourists from mainland China and Hong Kong showed year-on-year increases of 78% and 3.9% respectively, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. American, Canadian, and Australian visitor numbers have also remained strong.
While some travelers, like yoga instructor Samantha Tang and frequent visitor Oscar Chu from Hong Kong, have postponed plans due to fear of disruptions, others remain unfazed. “Earthquake predictions have never been accurate,” said Vic Shing, who plans to travel to Tokyo and Osaka in June.
Authorities have urged the public to rely on expert information. Miyagi Governor Yoshihiro Murai criticized the impact of “unscientific rumors” on tourism, while Tatsuki herself advised readers not to be “overly swayed” by her dream-based forecasts.
As Japan continues to prepare for potential disasters, officials emphasize resilience and readiness, not fear, as the best course for residents and travelers alike.
Written By Rodney Mbua
