Watch: Shattered glass, scattered books after strong earthquake rattles Japan

Early Sunday morning, Japan experienced a significant seismic event that resulted in injuries and property damage. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.7 according to Japan's Meteorological Agency and 5.5 by the US Geological Survey, struck central Japan. This magnitude places it in the range capable of causing considerable harm.

The quake struck at 1:04 am local time with its epicenter approximately 40 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface in Shizuoka Prefecture. Aichi and Shizuoka, neighboring regions, were particularly affected. While not felt strongly in Tokyo, Aichi experienced the most intense shaking.

The tremors caused windows to shatter, books to fly off shelves, and people to flee buildings in a state of panic. Several individuals sustained injuries, some falling down stairs in their haste to evacuate. Additionally, there was a risk to Japan's railway system, with Shinkansen bullet trains operating at reduced speeds as a precautionary measure.

The earthquake's aftermath saw footage of damaged storefronts and scattered debris on the streets. Local media reported that at least 22 people were injured, illustrating the earthquake's impact on the region. Japan, known for its vulnerability to earthquakes due to its location in a seismically active area, was once again reminded of this reality.