Quake-Resistant Wells: A Century of Saving Lives

Established in 1912, Nissaku Co. built its reputation on resilient wells, notably after the devastating 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. When the 7.9 magnitude quake destroyed Tokyo's water pipes, Nissaku's wells provided life-saving water, earning them the moniker "quake-resistant wells." This resilience led to commissions like digging wells for the Imperial Palace in 1924.

Demand for Nissaku's wells surges predictably after major seismic events, including the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake and the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. The company offers wells with hand pumps, ideal for disaster shelters and areas facing potential water shortages. In fiscal 2025, Nissaku reported sales of 6.32 billion yen and an ordinary profit of 119 million yen.

Nissaku has diversified its services beyond well drilling to include geological surveys and civil engineering, adapting to challenges like land subsidence and groundwater extraction restrictions. Since the 1970s, the company has also focused on international projects, contributing to water supply infrastructure in 45 nations, primarily in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The company, now headquartered in Saitama since 2003, has also begun hiring foreign staff since 2019 to address recruitment challenges. This global approach, combined with a focus on technological advancement, aims to extend well lifespans to half a century. Nissaku received the 2023 Saitama Global Award for its international achievements.