Archive · 25 May 2025
Japan Travel Bookings Fall Amid Earthquake Fears from Manga Novel
Some people are worried about a big earthquake in Japan.
A comic book artist wrote a story a long time ago about an earthquake and tsunami that might happen in Japan in July 2025.
Because of this story, some people are deciding not to travel to Japan right now.
Fewer people from places like Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong are booking flights and trips.
Even though scientists say it's impossible to know exactly when an earthquake will happen, the comic book story is making some people nervous and causing them to change their plans.
The tourism industry is being impacted, but Japan remains a popular destination overall.
Travel bookings to Japan from several Asian markets have decreased.
The decline is linked to an earthquake prediction from a manga novel.
Hong Kong bookings have dropped significantly, with up to 83% less arrivals in late June/early July.
Japanese authorities and meteorologists have dismissed the speculative predictions.
Overall tourism to Japan remains strong, despite the booking declines.
- Who
- Travellers from Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong, along with airlines and local authorities.
- What
- Travel bookings to Japan from major Asian markets have dropped significantly.
- When
- Bookings have decreased since April, with predictions focusing on July 2025.
- Where
- Japan, particularly affecting bookings from Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong.
- Why
- Travel bookings decreased due to fears of an earthquake predicted in a manga novel.
Concerned Travellers
Japanese Authorities/Scientists
Earthquake Likelihood
Concerned Travellers
An earthquake is predicted based on a manga, causing concerns.
Japanese Authorities/Scientists
The precise timing of earthquakes cannot be predicted.
Travel Decisions
Concerned Travellers
Travellers are cancelling or postponing travel to Japan.
Japanese Authorities/Scientists
The impact of the prediction on travel is temporary.
- Predicted Earthquake Date
- July 2025
- Hong Kong Booking Decrease (Year over Year)
- 50%
- International Visitors to Japan in April
- 3.9 million
- Source of Prediction
- Manga novel "The Future I Saw"
- Japan's Geological Location
- Pacific Ocean Seismic Zone