Travelers from across Asia are pulling back from trips to Japan after an old comic book predicted a major earthquake would hit the country in July 2025.
The unusual warning, first published in a 1999 manga titled The Future I Saw, has unexpectedly stirred real-world concern among potential visitors.
The comic, by artist Ryo Tatsuki, tells of a massive earthquake followed by devastating tsunamis that strike Japan in the summer of 2025. Though fictional, the story’s date-specific scenario has taken hold in the minds of some travelers. Bookings from places like South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have plunged sharply in recent months.
According to data from Bloomberg Intelligence, bookings from Hong Kong for late June through early July dropped over 80% compared to the same period last year. Taiwan and South Korea have seen declines of up to 50%. Analysts believe this drop may be linked to growing anxiety around the manga’s disaster prediction.
While Japan’s tourism industry reached a record high in April, welcoming nearly 4 million foreign visitors, the recent slowdown suggests the comic’s influence may be more significant than expected. With many travelers opting for alternative destinations across Asia, Japan’s booming tourism momentum could take a temporary hit.
Experts and officials have pushed back against the fear. Scientists emphasize that no current technology allows for accurate earthquake predictions by specific date. The Japanese government has also urged the public not to rely on unscientific claims when making travel decisions.
Still, Ryo Tatsuki’s name has resurfaced, with fans pointing out that she reportedly foresaw other disasters, including Japan’s deadly 2011 earthquake and tsunami. In a recent statement, she encouraged readers to be prepared, suggesting steps like stocking emergency supplies and reviewing evacuation routes—not out of fear, but readiness.
While tourism officials remain optimistic that the slowdown will pass, they acknowledge the short-term effects. With other destinations nearby offering similar experiences and less anxiety, cautious tourists are simply choosing to wait and watch.
Whether the comic book prophecy comes true or not, its unexpected impact on real-world travel choices is already being felt. As July 2025 approaches, Japan’s tourism sector will be watching closely—not just for visitor numbers, but for the influence of a decades-old story now fueling modern-day hesitation.