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On July 28 2026, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck central Kumamoto prefecture, registering a maximum seismic intensity of 7 on the Japanese earthquake scale. The disaster came 10 years after the devastating 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, dealing another heavy blow to a region that had only recently shifted its focus from recovery to long-term reconstruction.
One of Kumamoto city's most recognisable landmarks, Kumamoto Castle, had reopened its restored main keep in 2021, and full restoration was scheduled for completion by fiscal 2052. However, the latest earthquake has caused fresh damage, including cracks in the earthen walls of the main keep and the collapse of sections of the castle's stone ramparts, delaying reconstruction efforts once again.
The affected areas continue to experience frequent aftershocks alongside intense summer heat, with forecasts indicating record-breaking 40-plus degree temperatures across Kumamoto through the first week of August. Meanwhile, some communities are facing power outages, road blockages that isolate villages, and water shortages, making the rapid restoration of essential services increasingly urgent.
Following the 2016 earthquake, disaster-related deaths ultimately exceeded the number of direct fatalities caused by the tremor, highlighting the importance of sustained support well beyond the immediate aftermath. If you'd like to help those affected by the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake, here are several organisations and initiatives currently accepting donations and other forms of assistance. Before contributing, be sure to refer to each organisation's official website for the latest information.
Where to donate
Kumamoto Prefectural Government
A donation account has been established to support victims affected by the Kumamoto Earthquake. The prefectural government is accepting donations via bank transfer to multiple official receiving accounts.
Kumamoto Earthquake relief donation boxes are set up inside Kumamoto prefecture’s official promotional shop, Kumamotokan, in Ginza. In addition to having donation boxes on site, the store lets you support Kumamoto by purchasing local products from the prefecture. Note that due to the earthquake, some products are sold in limited quantities, and the second-floor restaurant and bar are closed.
Association for Aid and Relief, Japan
Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR Japan) was among the first to enter the disaster-stricken areas and continues to provide support to those in particularly vulnerable situations. The organisation is providing meals and distributing relief supplies.
A donation initiative by Line Yahoo Corporation. Donations can also be made using PayPay or V points. You can also donate via the PayPay app.
Rakuten Clutch Special Charity Fund
IT giant Rakuten Group has opened a special charity fund to support those directly affected by the quake. You can donate using Rakuten Points, online credit card payments, or a transfer to a designated Rakuten Bank donation account.
Japan Heart
Japan Heart is an international medical NGO founded in Japan that operates both domestically and abroad, seeking to deliver medical care to places where it is not readily available. The organisation has been an official partner of the Kumamoto Prefectural Government since 2021, providing support during large-scale disasters. Since arriving on site, they have set up a special medical consultation booth at the Otago Community Centre evacuation shelter in Yatsushiro city, providing medical and material support to residents, as well as distributing supplies to other evacuation shelters throughout the city. Donations are accepted via online credit card payments or PayPay.
Financial support for volunteers
Akai Hane Central Community Chest – Disaster Volunteer and NPO Activity Support Fund
In the months ahead, disaster-affected communities will require sustained support from volunteer groups and nonprofits to assist with recovery efforts, including clearing and repairing damaged homes, as well as providing physical and emotional care for those impacted by the disaster.
The Central Community Chest of Japan, an organisation established in the aftermath of World War II to support Japan’s reconstruction and strengthen social welfare initiatives, has a long history of providing grants for disaster relief and other community-focused programmes. One of its grant initiatives is supporting volunteer and nonprofit activities on the ground in Kumamoto, helping fund essential recovery efforts such as home restoration, debris removal and care services for people affected by the earthquake.
The support needed in Kumamoto will continue to evolve alongside the changing needs of those affected. Even if you are unable to make a financial contribution, helping to share verified official information and legitimate donation campaigns can make a meaningful difference in supporting the recovery efforts. We’ll continue to update this page as new details and resources become available.
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