Damage Extent and Information on Travel-OK Areas After the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024

The 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake hit the Noto Peninsula and surrounding region on January 1, 2024, at 4:10 PM with a magnitude of 7.6 and a seismic intensity of 7.
On the map, the Noto Peninsula can be found on the Japan Sea side of central Honshu, home to 12 cities and towns in Ishikawa Prefecture and one city in Toyama Prefecture.
'Magnitude' is an indicator of the earthquake's size, while 'seismic intensity' measures the strength of the shaking. All subsequent tsunami warnings after the quake on January 1st have since been lifted.
While gradually decreasing, the Noto Peninsula region still sees intermittent aftershocks with a seismic intensity of 3 or above, calling for ongoing caution.
The 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake spurred significant damage primarily in Ishikawa Prefecture, while also seeing substantial impact in parts of Toyama and Niigata Prefectures.
Fukui Prefecture experienced minimal damage, while the majority of its tourist destinations and lodging facilities are operating as usual.
Below are updates regarding the current situation in the heavily affected regions of Ishikawa, Toyama, and Niigata Prefectures.

In a quick digest of the goings on, tourism is fine and ready in all areas of Ishikawa Prefecture outside of the Noto region. Sadly though, the overall reputation and tourism in the area has taken a wide scale hit as the number of travelers to Ishikawa, Toyama, Niigata and Fukui decreases.
As mentioned at the top, travel is one way to combat this slump and truly support the Hokuriku region. This same impetus is the driving flame behind the newly launched Hokuriku Support Discount, started in an effort to bring more travel from in Japan and around the world to Ishikawa, Toyama, Niigata, and Fukui. If you’re considering a trip through Hokuriku, be sure to check out this discount program as you book your travels.

For more details on the campaign, including how to apply or book, please refer to the official website.

Ishikawa Prefecture saw a significantly higher level of damage in comparison to neighboring prefectures as it is home to the majority of the Noto Peninsula, close to the earthquake’s epicenter.
In 32 towns and districts of Ishikawa Prefecture, there is still a high risk of landslides and mudslides due to earthquakes, and evacuation orders have been issued. Most of these are in towns and districts of the Noto region, located immediately north of Kanazawa City, in Tsu-bata Town and Uchinada Town. The Noto region, in particular, has suffered significant damage, and recovery is expected to take time. In parts of the Noto region, the number of facilities resuming normal operations has been increasing, but as of Apr. 15th, 2024, it is advisable to refrain from tourism. In Kanazawa City, daily life has returned to normal, and most facilities are operating as usual.

As per comments by the Governor of Ishikawa Prefecture, “We would like people to definitely consider traveling to Ishikawa Prefecture”.
Please keep in mind that the Ishikawa Prefectural Government is requesting that non-essential travel be avoided to the Noto area, located immediately north of Kanazawa City, which includes the towns of Tsubata and Uchinada.
While there are some destinations and stays that have closed permanently or just for the time being, the region outside of Noto is still primed for tourism.
If you are traveling to places south of the Noto area you should be able to travel without issue.

Areas in Toyama Prefecture that are located along the Noto Peninsula, including Himi City and other areas along the Sea of Japan saw damage due to the earthquake.
Alternatively, areas outside of Himi City, including many tourist destinations are operating as usual.
There is also little to no impact on public transportation due to the earthquake.

Apart from the Nishi Ward of Niigata City, the prefectural capital and largest city, there has been no significant damage. However, Nishi Ward experienced considerable housing damage due to liquefaction during the earthquake. Avoiding Nishi Ward, tourist spots and accommodations in other areas are operating almost as usual.

The Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024 has raised concerns about what to do in case of an earthquake while traveling. Many may also be fearful of aftershocks. The best defense in this case is to review earthquake preparedness guide and before traveling. The following article introduces essential disaster prevention knowledge for traveling in Japan.

The above article should leave you with an updated look at areas affected by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024.
As mentioned at the beginning of the article, one impactful way to support the local community is to consider visiting minimally effected regions nearby rather than canceling plans all together.
Please be sure to avoid major recovery areas with significant damage. The information listed here is updated as of Apr. 15, 2024, meaning that current details may be subject to change.