Japan Megaquake Advisory Lifted: Is It Safe For Your Muslim-Friendly Holiday?

If you’ve been keeping a close eye on the news lately, you might have felt a little nervous about your upcoming trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. Following a magnitude 7.5 earthquake off the coast of Aomori on December 8, Japan issued a rare "megaquake advisory."

But we have some good news to share—the advisory has officially been lifted! Here is the latest scoop for our HHWT community.

Earlier this month, a strong quake shook the northern regions of Japan, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a special advisory for the Hokkaido-Sanriku area.

This was a precautionary measure to warn that the risk of a follow-up "megaquake" was statistically higher than usual for one week.

As of 16 December 2025, authorities have called off the alert as no further large-scale seismic activity was detected.

Yes! For those heading to Hokkaido for the winter season, major ski resorts like Niseko and Furano are operating normally. While the quake caused some minor damage to roads and windows in the Aomori region, tourism infrastructure in the main cities remains largely unaffected.

Note on Transport: Most train lines, including the Shinkansen, are back to their regular schedules. The only minor disruption remains on the JR Hachinohe Line, where some sections are currently being repaired. If you’re planning to travel through Aomori, be sure to check the latest rail updates!

While no country can guarantee 100% safety from natural disasters, Japan is world-renowned for its preparedness. The lifting of the advisory means the government believes the immediate "extra" risk has passed. However, they continue to urge locals and tourists to remain "normally vigilant."

1. Keep the "Safety Tips" App Handy: This is a lifesaver! It provides real-time alerts in English and 14 other languages.
2. Know the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" Rule: If you feel a tremor while enjoying your halal ramen, remember to stay away from glass and seek cover under a sturdy table.
3. Check the JNTO Website: The Japan National Tourism Organisation has a dedicated "Safe Travel" page that updates daily.

Don't let the news dampen your spirits! Japan is as beautiful as ever, and the local community is well-equipped to handle these situations. Just stay informed, get your travel insurance sorted, and get ready for those amazing konbini snacks!