Japan’s vibrant tourism sector is reeling from a significant downturn in bookings, particularly from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea, following the widespread circulation of an unsubstantiated rumor predicting a major earthquake in July 2025. Travel agencies and hospitality providers across Japan are reporting a staggering 50% drop in reservations from these crucial markets, raising concerns about the immediate and long-term impact on the nation’s economy.
The rumor, which appears to have gained traction through social media and messaging apps, suggests a catastrophic earthquake is imminent during the current month. Despite official denials from the Japan Meteorological Agency and geological experts, who have unequivocally stated there is no scientific basis for such a prediction, the fear among potential travelers has proven potent.
“We’ve seen a dramatic decline in bookings, especially for group tours and individual travel from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea,” said Kenji Tanaka, spokesperson for the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). “It’s incredibly frustrating, as this is purely based on a baseless rumor. Our priority now is to reassure travelers and disseminate accurate information.”
The 50% drop represents a substantial blow to a sector that has been a key driver of Japan’s post-pandemic economic recovery. Tourists from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea consistently rank among the top contributors to inbound tourism, known for their frequent visits and significant spending.
Travel agents in the affected regions confirm the widespread apprehension among their clients. “Many of our customers are asking about the earthquake rumors, and despite our efforts to explain that it’s false, some are choosing to cancel or postpone their trips,” said Emily Chan, owner of a travel agency in Hong Kong specializing in Japan tours. “It’s a very difficult situation for us as well.”
Japanese tourism officials are now scrambling to counteract the misinformation. The JNTO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is launching an urgent campaign to debunk the rumors through official channels, social media, and partnerships with travel industry stakeholders in the affected markets. They are emphasizing Japan’s robust building codes, advanced earthquake early warning systems, and the unreliability of earthquake predictions.
While the immediate focus is on dispelling the current panic, there are concerns about the potential for long-term damage to Japan’s reputation as a safe and desirable travel destination if such misinformation campaigns persist. The incident underscores the growing challenge posed by the rapid spread of unverified information in the digital age, with real-world consequences for industries reliant on public trust and confidence.