A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has struck southern Japan, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a tsunami advisory for the coasts of the Ariake Sea and the Yatsushiro Sea.
The earthquake hit Kumamoto Prefecture shortly before 4.30pm local time at a depth of just over 10km (6 miles), according to the United States Geological Survey.
Japanese broadcaster NHK reported that the shaking lasted for around one minute.
Authorities have urged people to stay away from the ocean and the shoreline while the tsunami advisory remains in place.
The Nuclear Regulation Authority said it had not detected any abnormalities at nearby nuclear facilities in Ikata and Genkai following the quake.
Japan's Prime Minister also issued three immediate instructions to government agencies after the earthquake.
In a statement, the Prime Minister's Office directed officials to quickly assess the extent of the damage, work closely with local authorities to prioritise rescue efforts and saving lives, and provide the public with up-to-date information on evacuations and the developing situation.
The instructions were issued shortly after the earthquake struck. The Japan Meteorological Agency is expected to hold a press conference later today.
Videos shared on social media appear to show cameras shaking violently near Kumamoto Castle as the earthquake hit.
The latest quake comes just over a decade after two powerful earthquakes struck Kumamoto in April 2016, killing 278 people and injuring around 2,800 others.
Kumamoto Castle suffered significant damage during the 2016 disaster, with restoration work expected to continue until 2052.
