Yes, Japan Faces Natural Disasters—But That Is No Reason for Political Fearmongering

 Japan is a country where earthquakes, typhoons, and heavy snow are part of life. We do not deny that reality. We live with it, prepare for it, and continue moving forward. That is why using natural disasters as a political tool against Japan is both unfair and unworthy of any serious nation.

This morning began with heavy rain, cold air, and gloomy skies. The news reported a strong earthquake in Hokkaido shortly after five o’clock. Coming so soon after last week’s large quake off the Sanriku coast, it naturally causes concern.

My daughter, who lives in New York, once said that the best thing there is the absence of earthquakes. I understand exactly what she means.

Japan has always lived under the shadow of nature. Earthquakes, typhoons, volcanic eruptions, and heavy snowfall are not unusual here. Even Mount Fuji could erupt someday, and we know it. We prepare because we must.

That does not mean we stop living.

Recently, I spoke with someone living in Karuizawa, who said that the number of Western tourists has increased, while large tour groups from China have become far less visible. Similar stories are heard in Kamakura as well. Chinese group tourism appears to have declined, though individual travelers still continue to visit.

This likely reflects official discouragement of travel to Japan by the Chinese government.

It is unfortunate when ordinary people who may wish to visit Japan are restrained by political messaging from above. More recently, there have even been reports of campaigns using Japan’s earthquakes as a reason to avoid travel here.

That goes too far.

Natural disasters are serious matters. They should never be turned into propaganda. If there were hidden dangers or a lack of public information, criticism would be understandable. But Japan provides visitors with extensive information, warnings, and guidance.

Millions still choose to come.

The proper path between nations is dialogue, mutual respect, and open exchange—not attempts to spread fear for political convenience.

A country that calls itself a great power should behave like one.

 

True strength is shown not by spreading fear, but by showing dignity. 

 

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Vocabulary for Learners

• natural disaster – 自然災害
• earthquake – 地震
• fearmongering – 不安をあおること、恐怖を利用する扇動
• under the shadow of – ～の脅威のもとで
• discouragement of travel – 渡航自粛の働きかけ
• propaganda – 宣伝工作、政治的プロパガンダ
• mutual respect – 相互尊重
• political convenience – 政治的都合
• great power – 大国
• dignity – 品位、威厳