The viral rumours have created panic among tourists, with some airlines cancelling flights to Japanese cities due to low passenger demand.

Panic is spreading across Japan as more than 1,000 earthquakes have rattled the country in just two weeks, fueling viral claims that the infamous July 5 “megaquake” prophecy from a popular manga series is coming true.

Over 1,000 quakes rock Japan, fueling fears over a July 5 earthquake prediction from a viral manga. Officials deny scientific basis, urge calm.