Japan Tourism Rumour Of Mega Earthquake Has No Scientific Basis - But Why Does It Spook HK, Korean Travellers?

Sitting on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' Japan experiences multiple earthquakes a year, many of which are too minor to notice. (Credit: Pixabay)

A viral rumour predicting a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in Japan in July 2025 is unsettling travellers across East Asia and prompting cancellations. The speculation, which originated from a Japanese manga, has spread rapidly online, fuelling anxiety despite reassurances from scientists.

Seismologists and government officials have repeatedly dismissed the claims, stressing that earthquakes cannot be forecast with such precision. Even so, the rumour is already denting bookings from South Korea and Hong Kong, raising concern within Japan's tourism sector.