Earlier this year, a manga called Watashi ga Mita Mirai (The Future I Saw) by Ryo Tatsuki gained a lot of attention. Tatsuki claimed to have psychic dreams, and her manga supposedly predicted the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011. Because of this, when she released a new edition, Watashi ga Mita Mirai Kanzenban (The Future I Saw: The Complete Edition), predicting another major earthquake on July 5, 2025, people took notice.
Even though many scientists and Japanese officials were skeptical, the prediction spread rapidly online. This caused real concern, and many people decided to postpone or cancel their trips to Japan. Flights from Hong Kong to Japan, for example, dropped by a huge 83% in late June and early July. The fear was directly linked to the earthquake prediction.
The impact on tourism was noticeable. There were fewer tourists from China, so much so that signs at Mount Fuji were changed from Chinese to English. Tourist numbers also decreased from South Korea and Taiwan. The fear surrounding the manga’s prediction clearly affected Japan’s tourism industry, with many people feeling uneasy about traveling there.
The story became a global news item, covered by major news outlets. The widespread coverage only amplified the anxiety and contributed to the decline in tourism.
However, July 5, 2025, has now passed, and there was no major earthquake. The prediction turned out to be false. Okatani Hiroki from NHK, a Japanese news organization, criticized the spread of the false rumor. He pointed out that while earthquakes do occur in places like Kagoshima Prefecture, experts said they were unrelated to the prediction. He emphasized the importance of not spreading false information, as it can cause unnecessary panic and stress.
Ryoichi Nomura of the Japan Meteorological Agency also commented before July 5, stating that there was no reason to worry about such predictions, dismissing them as hoaxes.
The whole situation highlights how easily rumors and predictions can spread online, and the real-world impact they can have. Even though the predicted earthquake didn’t happen, the fear it generated caused significant disruption, particularly to Japan’s tourism industry.
Now that the predicted date has passed without incident, there’s hope that tourism will rebound. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the power of misinformation and the importance of relying on credible sources for information, especially when it comes to natural disasters.
Japan, known for its resilience and stunning landscapes, remains a safe and attractive destination for travelers. The country’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and advanced infrastructure continue to draw visitors from around the world. While the manga prediction caused a temporary setback, it’s unlikely to have a long-term impact on Japan’s popularity as a tourist destination.
The incident also raises questions about the ethics of publishing predictions, especially those that can cause widespread fear and economic damage. While freedom of expression is important, there’s a need for responsibility when sharing information that could potentially impact public safety and well-being.
In the aftermath of the failed prediction, Japanese authorities and tourism agencies are working to reassure potential visitors and promote the country’s safety and appeal. They are emphasizing the importance of relying on official sources for information about earthquakes and other natural disasters, and highlighting the measures in place to protect residents and tourists alike.
The episode also underscores the need for media literacy and critical thinking skills. In an age of instant information and social media sharing, it’s crucial to be able to evaluate the credibility of sources and avoid spreading misinformation. This is especially important when it comes to topics that can cause fear and anxiety, such as natural disasters and public health crises.
Looking ahead, it’s likely that Japan’s tourism industry will recover from the temporary setback caused by the manga prediction. The country’s enduring appeal, combined with efforts to reassure visitors and promote accurate information, should help to restore confidence and attract tourists once again. The incident serves as a valuable lesson about the power of misinformation and the importance of responsible communication in the digital age.
The Japanese government is now focusing on rebuilding trust and attracting tourists back to the country. They are implementing new strategies to counter misinformation and promote Japan as a safe and welcoming destination. These strategies include working with social media platforms to flag false information, launching public awareness campaigns to educate people about earthquake preparedness, and partnering with travel agencies to offer special deals and promotions to attract visitors.
Furthermore, efforts are being made to strengthen Japan’s earthquake early warning system and improve disaster preparedness measures. This will not only enhance the safety of residents and tourists but also demonstrate Japan’s commitment to mitigating the impact of natural disasters. The goal is to create a sense of security and confidence among potential visitors, assuring them that Japan is well-prepared to handle any unforeseen events.
The incident also highlighted the importance of cultural understanding and sensitivity. While the manga prediction may have been dismissed as a hoax by some, it resonated with others who have a deep respect for Japanese folklore and spiritual beliefs. It’s crucial to approach such topics with an open mind and avoid making generalizations or stereotypes. By fostering cultural understanding, we can build stronger relationships and promote greater empathy and respect.
In conclusion, the manga prediction of a massive earthquake on July 5, 2025, caused a significant drop in tourism to Japan, but thankfully, the predicted disaster did not occur. The incident serves as a reminder of the power of misinformation and the importance of relying on credible sources for information. While the tourism industry experienced a temporary setback, Japan remains a safe and attractive destination for travelers, and efforts are underway to rebuild trust and attract visitors back to the country.