Yamanashi Prefecture (山梨県) — Earthquake Risk & History
Chubu region · Based on HERP official data
Yamanashi lies north of Mt. Fuji and falls within the Tokai earthquake influence zone. Multiple active faults run through the prefecture, and the possibility of earthquakes linked to a future Mt. Fuji eruption has been noted by researchers.
Fault Lines & Seismic Characteristics
Active Faults & Trenches
- Itoigawa–Shizuoka Tectonic Line
- Katsunuma Fault
- Lake Kawaguchi Fault
Seismic Characteristics
The Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line (ISTL) runs north–south through Yamanashi, forming one of Japan's most significant geological boundaries. The Kawaguchiko lakeshore, north of Mt. Fuji, faces landslide and volcano-related earthquake risk. Eastern Yamanashi would also experience strong shaking in a Tokyo Metropolitan Earthquake.
Earthquake History
- M7.9
- M6.9
1974
Izu Peninsula earthquake — some impact on Yamanashi and Shizuoka
※ Showing M6.5+ or Intensity 5+ events. Source: JMA database.
Future Probability — HERP Official Assessment
30-Year Probability (Official Figure)
Long-term evaluation by the Earthquake Research Committee. A link between ISTL earthquakes and Mt. Fuji eruption activity is under research. When visiting from the Tokyo area, carry emergency supplies in case return transport is disrupted.
Traveler Safety Information
Finding Evacuation Shelters
- ✅ Search "避難所" (hinanjo) on Google Maps to find the nearest shelter from your current location
- ✅ Install NHK World or Safety tips (Japan Tourism Agency app) — both send English earthquake alerts
- ✅ Yamanashi Prefecture official disaster prevention page (Japanese) — includes shelter maps
Basic Action Rules
- ✅ At check-in, locate emergency exits and escape routes
- ✅ On strong shaking: protect your head, open a door to secure an exit, do not use elevators
- ✅ Near coasts or rivers: move to high ground immediately — do not wait for a tsunami warning
- ✅ Emergency numbers: Police 110 · Ambulance/Fire 119
- ✅ Contact your embassy in Tokyo for emergency consular assistance
Research & Official Sources AI summary
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Earthquake risk along the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line
The ISTL is one of Japan's most important geological boundaries. An M7-class earthquake along it could cause widespread damage across Yamanashi and neighboring regions.
Source: 지진조사위원회 (2021) -
Earthquake and volcanic preparedness near Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko, Fujiyoshida)
Kawaguchiko and Fujiyoshida are popular spots on the north slope of Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji is at JMA alert level 1 (active) but open to visitors. During an earthquake, landslide and rockfall risk is elevated, and limited road connections back to the Tokyo area mean disruption is possible. Carry one to two days of emergency supplies and a portable charger.
Source: 야마나시현 방재과·기상청 화산부 (2023)
Related Guides
Seismic characteristics and research summaries on this page are AI-generated from publicly available data by JMA, Cabinet Office, and HERP. Historical earthquake data (year, magnitude, damage) is based on official records, but key figures should always be cross-checked with the latest official sources. This page does not predict future earthquakes.