The "giant fish under Japan" that is believed to foretell earthquakes is the oarfish, known locally as ryugu no tsukai, or "messenger from the sea god's palace". It is a deep-sea creature that can reach over 30 feet in length, and according to Japanese folklore, its appearance in shallow waters warns of impending natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis.
Japanese folklore indicates the fish belonged to servants of the sea god Ryūjin. Hence the fish is also known as "ryugu no tsukai," which translates to "messenger from the sea god's palace." It's believed the oarfish were sent from the palace toward the surface to warn people of earthquakes.
In Japanese mythology, the Namazu (鯰) or Ōnamazu (大鯰) is a giant underground catfish who causes earthquakes. The creature lives under the islands of Japan and is guarded by the god Takemikazuchi enshrined at Kashima, who restrains the catfish with a stone.
The legend is that if you see an oarfish, it is a warning sign from higher powers that disasters such as earthquakes are soon to occur. According to numerous news reports, before Japan's 2011 earthquake (one of the most catastrophic in history) a total of 20 oarfish washed ashore.
According to an old Japanese belief, oarfish is referred to as the doomsday fish because its appearance near the surface is thought to be a warning of impending natural disasters. In some cases, people have reported seeing oarfish washing ashore before major earthquakes, especially in Japan.
From the end of 2024, a rumor began that a great earthquake would occur in Japan in July 2025, based on a purported prophecy in the 1999 manga The Future I Saw by Ryo Tatsuki. Its spread in several Asian countries resulted in a notable decline in holiday travel to Japan. Seismologists discounted the prediction.
Oarfish don't really pose any threat to humans. Although their gelatinous flesh is nothing you'd want to eat, they're not poisonous. Oarfish aren't particularly aggressive either. Even if they were, they don't have a lot of muscle mass to thrash those long bodies around with any kind of injurious force.
In traditional Japanese legend, oarfish were known as "ryugu no tsukai" meaning "the messenger from the sea dragon god's palace." People believed oarfish would come up from the deep to warn people when an earthquake was imminent.
They rarely come to the ocean surface, perhaps only when dying or disoriented, and occasionally wash up on beaches around their home range (all tropical to warm temperate seas). Most individuals that are discovered near the surface or near beaches do not survive. Unlike most fishes, the oarfish's body has no scales.
The traditional diet in Japan is built around a base of rice and other grains, with plentiful consumption of vegetables and fruits, and also fish, but relatively little animal fat, meat and sweets. In Japan, the presentation of the food is very important, and particular attention is given to the colors and textures.
Sightings of "doomsday fish" in shallow waters have been an omen of impending disaster dating back to 17th century Japan. This belief stems from their rare appearances near the surface or washing ashore often coinciding with natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis.
Giant oarfish are the longest bony fish in the ocean, but like many aquatic giants, they are mostly harmless. Well, they're harmless unless you happen to be one of the small crustaceans, zooplankton, squid or jellyfish that make up their diet.
An oarfish was seen near San Diego on August 10, 2024. It was 12 feet long (3.7 metres) and short-crested. Doomsday fish had only been seen in the region 20 times since 1901.
What is unique about the appearance of the oarfish in Animal Crossing? The oarfish, a rare oceanic creature in Animal Crossing, is available throughout the day from December to May. It is distinctive for its large shadow size and can be sold for 9,000 Bells.
7 Fish will be washed up on the shores of the Dead Sea. The voice of one whom many do not know will be heard at night; everyone will hear it. 8 The earth will break open in many places and begin spouting out flames. Wild animals will leave the fields and forests.
Guppies are one of the most popular and beginner-friendly fish for aquariums. These small, colorful fish are incredibly peaceful and get along well with almost any other species. Personality: Calm, active swimmers, and easygoing. Tank Size: 10-20 gallons for a small school.
Following an earthquake on the evening of December 8, 2025, the Japan Meteorological Agency has advised residents to be prepared to evacuate in the case of a major tremor, stating that the possibility has risen from 0.1% to 1% for the period of a week.
Starting in 2026, Japan has officially ended its instant tax-free shopping system for tourists. Here's what that means for YOU: You'll now pay the full price upfront, including Japan's 10% consumption tax. To get your tax back, you'll need to apply for a refund later — possibly at airports or designated counters.
