Japan is a country prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and floods. In times of crisis, the timely and accurate transmission of information is vital to saving lives. However, for non-Japanese-speaking foreign residents, disaster-related information is often difficult to understand, which can lead to delayed evacuation or isolation. Therefore, as mentioned in the article of Yomiuri Shimbun 2025/04/16, support systems that provide information in residents’ native languages are essential. This support involves not only national and local governments but also plays a significant role at the community level.
This report presents examples of native-language support for foreign residents during past disasters in Japan, highlighting both institutional and community-led efforts.
1. The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake (1995) and Local Volunteer Efforts
During the 1995 Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, many foreign residents—particularly Koreans, Chinese, and Vietnamese—were affected. However, at the time, government systems for multilingual support were nearly non-existent, and many foreign residents were unable to access essential information. Language barriers and cultural differences at evacuation centers often led to foreign residents being left behind.
In response, local citizen groups and volunteers stepped in. In Nagata Ward, Kobe, Korean and Chinese community groups provided independent support, including interpretation services and distribution of supplies. Additionally, international students volunteered to support fellow foreigners. These grassroots efforts highlighted the critical role of mutual aid (kyōjo) and community-based support during disasters.
2. The Niigata Chuetsu Earthquake (2004) and Local International Centers
During the 2004 Chuetsu Earthquake, the Niigata International Association (NIA) led the dissemination of multilingual information in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, and more. Since NIA had already built connections with foreign communities, this network was effectively activated during the disaster. They provided translated evacuation guidance, telephone consultations, and distributed disaster manuals.
In Ojiya and Nagaoka cities, local volunteers worked with foreign residents to provide meals and manage evacuation shelters. In neighborhoods, Japanese residents visited foreign households to share information and offer support. These efforts demonstrated how local ties can overcome language barriers in times of crisis.
3. The Great East Japan Earthquake (2011): Multilingual Support and Community Collaboration
The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake displaced many foreign residents, including technical trainees and international students. Multilingual evacuation information and simplified Japanese (“yasashii Nihongo”) were widely implemented by municipalities and international exchange associations.
In Sendai, the Sendai Tourism and International Association established a foreigner support center, with help from local volunteers. They provided translated news, shelter information, and medical referrals. International students also acted as interpreters and helped spread accurate information within their communities.
In Iwaki, a local Filipino community offered assistance to fellow nationals, providing disaster updates and emergency supplies in their native language. This example reflects how foreign residents themselves have evolved from recipients of support to active supporters, strengthening community resilience.
4. The Kumamoto Earthquake (2016): Community FM and Local Exchange Centers
During the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, local community radio station FM791 began broadcasting disaster information in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, and Vietnamese. This timely information—broadcast via radio and smartphones—was crucial for foreign residents.
The Kumamoto City International Center also played a central role by sending volunteer interpreters to evacuation shelters and distributing multilingual materials. Their effectiveness was due to long-standing connections with local foreign residents, established through daily cultural and language exchange activities.
5. Importance of Community-Based Disaster Preparedness
Immediate multilingual support in a disaster is only possible if strong relationships exist beforehand. In Edogawa Ward, Tokyo—home to many Nepalese and Indian residents—regular disaster drills for foreigners are held, featuring multilingual manuals and practical workshops. In Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka, the “Multicultural Disaster Prevention Camp” encourages joint participation between Japanese and foreign residents, fostering trust and communication.
These types of community-led disaster preparedness programs form the foundation for effective support when a real disaster strikes. They are critical to building mutual understanding and shared responsibility in a diverse society.
Conclusion
Providing native-language support for foreign residents during disasters is not just a matter of convenience—it is a life-saving necessity. While government and institutional responses have improved, community-based efforts continue to play a vital role. Past disasters have shown that strong relationships, mutual aid, and active participation from foreign residents themselves are key to effective support.
In a multicultural society, ensuring that no one is left behind during a disaster requires a combination of institutional preparedness and grassroots community engagement. Native-language communication will only grow in importance as Japan becomes increasingly diverse.