The Tōkai earthquake of Japan struck in 1498, 1605, 1707, and 1854. Given the regularity of these earthquakes, the next ‘big one’ is overdue. Many Japanese people told me earthquakes are just one of those things that they must deal with and is just part of the national mindset. Japanese scientists believe they can predict an earthquake so to warn people on their mobile phones. I'm not sure if this is possible.
When I was in Japan I lived by the sea and I was petrified of being killed by a tsunami. The house probably would withstand the shaking as it was made of wood. Most houses are because they’re flexible.
I was in the 2011 Great Eastern Japan Earthquake. I was teaching English when suddenly the room felt like it was on jelly - violent shaking for at least five minutes. Scientists were not expecting a quake in the East and have recently discovered that this earthquake is a 1000 year recurring event. They were expecting the Great Tōkai earthquake as discussed above. There was a deep national sadness.. and also a deep, deep national depression. People have to live in fear of earthquakes all the time.
I myself couldn't cope with it. I went back into a deep depression and decided to travel back home. I miss Japan very much to this day.
The 2011 Great Eastern japan Earthquake has a lot to answer for - not least in your life but also in 1.000s of others' lives.
It caused a deep national sadness and depression....thank you for sharing, L