The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning along the western coastal regions of Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama prefectures.
Initial reports from the region suggest massive destruction in a large area. Videos posted to social media platforms show cracks in roads and some of the houses damaged beyond repairs.
There was no official word on the extent of destruction immediately as officials focused on evacuation from the coastal region.
Tsunami of up to 5 meters high are believed to be reaching Noto in Ishikawa Prefecture, according to the weather agency.
Waves more than 1 meter high hit the coast of Wajima City in Ishikawa Prefecture, NHK reported.
Hokuriku Electric Power said it is checking for any irregularities at its nuclear power plants, NHK reported.
