A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has struck southern Japan, triggering a tsunami advisory for parts of the country's coastline.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued the advisory for the coasts of the Ariake Sea and the Yatsushiro Sea after the earthquake hit Kumamoto Prefecture shortly before 4.30pm local time.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake struck at a depth of just over 10 kilometres (6 miles).
Public broadcaster NHK reported that the tremor lasted for around one minute.
Residents have been told to stay away from the sea and coastal areas while authorities monitor the situation.
Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority said there were no reported abnormalities at the nearby Ikata and Genkai nuclear facilities following the earthquake.
Following the quake, Japan's Prime Minister instructed government agencies to immediately assess the damage, work with local authorities on rescue operations and life-saving efforts, and keep the public informed about evacuations and any further developments.
The Prime Minister's Office issued the instructions within minutes of the earthquake. The Japan Meteorological Agency is expected to provide a further update during a press conference later today.
Videos posted on social media appear to show cameras shaking violently near Kumamoto Castle as the earthquake struck.
The latest earthquake comes more than 10 years after the devastating 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, which claimed 278 lives and left around 2,800 people injured.
The 2016 disaster also caused extensive damage to Kumamoto Castle, where restoration work is expected to continue until 2052.
