An interview with sound designer Takashi Kokubo has been published on Asahi Shimbun Digital.

The article explores the untold story behind the creation of the alert tone used for Japan’s Emergency Earthquake Warning (EEW) system, which marks its 20th anniversary since becoming operational. Known for his environmental music incorporating natural sounds, Kokubo was tasked with creating “a sound that people would notice no matter what—even while asleep.” To achieve this, he studied attention-grabbing signal sounds such as air-raid sirens and temple bells, ultimately developing the alert tone that is now familiar throughout Japan.

The interview also touches on Kokubo’s complex feelings about how the alert tone repeatedly sounded during the Great East Japan Earthquake, leaving deep emotional impressions and memories on many people. He also reflects on messages he has received from disaster survivors over the years.

The article includes videos featuring prototype alert sounds that were not selected, as well as footage of the actual sound-design process. These materials provide a fascinating look into the trial-and-error journey that led to the creation of the warning tone we hear today.

Although it has become recognized as “a sound no one wants to hear, yet an essential one,” Kokubo explains that, even if words of gratitude rarely reach him directly, he chose this sound for one reason: to help save lives.

This is the little-known story of a musician who has spent his career bringing healing through sound—and who also created a sound dedicated to protecting human life.

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