A moderately strong earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale rattled a wide area about 170 km (100 miles) southwest of Tokyo today, injuring three people, officials said.
The quake measured an Upper 5 on the Japanese scale of one to seven, meaning that it can cause heavy damage to poorly constructed buildings and concrete walls can be toppled.
The quake, which hit at 11:57 p.m. (14.57 GMT), was centred in the province of Shizuoka and was felt most strongly in Shizuoka City where some buildings sustained broken windows.
It was felt over a wide area, including the capital.
Police said the three injured were hurt by falling furniture. None were in a serious condition.
Officials said some people in outlying areas were without water. Trains in the area were halted and highways closed for inspection.
Chubu Electric Co. said its nearby Hamaoka nuclear power plant was operating as normal after the quake.