SHIZUOKA, Japan (March 21, 2026) — A landslide in Shizuoka Prefecture has left approximately 79 people stranded, including tourists and workers involved in the Linear Chuo Shinkansen construction project, according to early reports. The incident, which occurred on a prefectural road in the葵区 (Aoi Ward) of Shizuoka City, has blocked access and prompted ongoing removal efforts.
Authorities were alerted to the landslide on Saturday, with reports indicating that around 20 meters of earth and debris have accumulated on the roadway. The affected area is a mountainous region along the 南アルプス公園線 (Minami Alps Park Line), a key route through the prefecture.
Among those isolated are guests staying in local accommodations and personnel working on the high-speed rail project. Emergency services are currently focused on clearing the debris and establishing safe passage. The road remains closed as crews continue to work, and there is no immediate estimate for when it will reopen.
The landslide underscores the challenges posed by seasonal weather patterns and geological conditions in mountainous areas of Japan. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
