Could You Survive the Shake? Take This Japan Earthquake Quiz
-
What tectonic setting causes frequent earthquakes in Japan?
-
Divergent boundary
-
Transform fault
-
Subduction zone
-
Rift valley
-
You’re halfway through a disaster documentary when the screen shows Tokyo trembling, and someone next to you asks, “Wait, was that the 2011 one or another one?” You hesitate, realizing all those headlines have blurred into one giant tectonic blur.
This Japan Earthquake Quiz was designed to test how much you really know about Japan’s earthquake history, scientific causes, and safety responses. Whether you’re a student, a global citizen, or someone just trying to understand how the Earth keeps glitching under Japan’s feet, this Japan Earthquake Quiz is your crash course in seismic reality—without the aftershocks.
Disclaimer: This Natural Disasters quiz is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not affiliated with any geological or emergency response organizations. Facts are based on publicly available data, including past earthquake events and disaster preparedness guidelines. This quiz cannot predict earthquakes or serve as a substitute for professional survival training. Always follow your local emergency authority during an actual seismic event. Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay safe.
Quiz Preview
- 2.
What year did the Great East Japan Earthquake occur?
-
1995
-
2004
-
2011
-
2017
Correct Answer
A. 2011Explanation
The Great East Japan Earthquake occurred in 2011, specifically on March 11. It was one of the most powerful quakes in recorded history and had devastating consequences, including a tsunami and nuclear disaster. The 2011 event became a turning point in global disaster preparedness and reshaped Japan’s approach to energy, infrastructure, and emergency response.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
Which oceanic plate is subducting beneath Japan?
-
African Plate
-
Pacific Plate
-
North American Plate
-
Nazca Plate
Correct Answer
A. Pacific PlateExplanation
The Pacific Plate is subducting beneath the eastern edge of Japan. As it sinks under the continental crust, stress builds up at the boundary until it's suddenly released, causing powerful earthquakes. This constant tectonic interaction explains Japan’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the necessity for continuous monitoring and preparedness.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
What natural disaster followed the 2011 earthquake?
-
Volcanic eruption
-
Tornado
-
Tsunami
-
Wildfire
Correct Answer
A. TsunamiExplanation
After the 2011 earthquake, a massive tsunami followed, caused by the seafloor’s sudden upward shift. The tsunami waves reached up to 40 meters in height and caused widespread flooding, loss of life, and property destruction along Japan’s northeast coast. The tsunami’s force also led directly to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear crisis.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
What was the magnitude of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake?
-
$7
-
$8
-
$9
-
$8
Correct Answer
A. $9Explanation
The magnitude 9.1 of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake makes it one of the strongest ever recorded globally. Magnitude is measured on a logarithmic scale, so each whole number represents a tenfold increase in amplitude and roughly 32 times more energy. A 9.1 event releases hundreds of thousands of times more energy than a typical quake felt in urban areas.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
Which nuclear power plant was critically affected in 2011?
-
Sendai Nuclear Plant
-
Fukushima Daiichi
-
Tokai Nuclear Plant
-
Hokkaido Reactor
Correct Answer
A. Fukushima DaiichiExplanation
The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant was severely impacted by the tsunami that followed the quake. The wave disabled the cooling systems, causing nuclear meltdowns and radioactive leaks. This disaster highlighted vulnerabilities in nuclear infrastructure and led to global re-evaluation of nuclear energy safety, especially in quake-prone areas.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
What technology helps Japan detect earthquakes early?
-
Sonar buoys
-
Seismic early warning system
-
Infrared drones
-
Wind pressure sensors
Correct Answer
A. Seismic early warning systemExplanation
Japan uses an advanced seismic early warning system to detect primary waves (P-waves) before the damaging secondary waves (S-waves) arrive. This system can provide precious seconds to alert people, shut down trains, and halt industrial machinery. It is one of the most sophisticated earthquake alert systems in the world and demonstrates Japan’s commitment to reducing casualties.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
What is a “megathrust” earthquake?
-
A shallow inland quake
-
A manmade seismic event
-
A quake along a subduction zone
-
One triggered by a volcano
Correct Answer
A. A quake along a subduction zoneExplanation
A megathrust earthquake is a powerful quake that occurs along subduction zones where one tectonic plate is forced under another. These are capable of triggering massive tsunamis and widespread ground shaking. The 2004 Indian Ocean quake and the 2011 Japan quake were both megathrust events, proving their potential for extreme devastation.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
Why is Japan so well-prepared for earthquakes?
-
It has flat terrain
-
It has mild weather
-
It invests in resilient infrastructure
-
It rarely experiences quakes
Correct Answer
A. It invests in resilient infrastructureExplanation
Japan is so well-prepared because of its continuous investment in resilient infrastructure, strict building codes, and public education campaigns. Earthquake drills are routine, and buildings are designed to flex without collapsing. This level of preparedness has saved countless lives and has become a global standard for earthquake-prone regions.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
What agency tracks earthquakes in Japan?
-
JAXA
-
Tokyo Emergency Force
-
Japan Meteorological Agency
-
Japan Geological Service
Correct Answer
A. Japan Meteorological AgencyExplanation
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is responsible for monitoring earthquakes and tsunamis in the country. It issues alerts, gathers seismic data, and supports disaster response planning. The JMA's role is vital in reducing confusion during crises and providing scientific analysis to both the public and government agencies.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jun 8, 2025 +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Jun 08, 2025Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Jun 03, 2025Quiz Created by
Hansika
Back to top