1995 Kobe Earthquake

This 6.9 Magnitude earthquake on January 16, 1995 in Kobe, Japan caused extensive damage and loss of life. It has been studied extensively, especially in relation to the Northridge Earthquake in Southern California, almost exactly one year earlier. Both earthquakes had similar magnitudes and resulted from similar faults. The damage in Kobe, however was much worse than in Northridge. One major difference was in the different construction of buildings in California and Japan. Many buildings in Kobe were older and had heavy tile roofs that collapsed on the occupants. In California, most houses are wooden. These houses shook but generally did not collapse.

Kobe Report on the Earthquake
The City of Kobe webpage on the disaster and reconstruction.
EQE Report on the Kobe Earthquake
EQE is an engineering consulting firm, specializing in issues relating to earthquakes and other naturnal disasters. This report summarizes the effects of the quake on the structures and infrastructure of the affected area.
Here are 4 dramatic Kobe Quake pictures
Kobe city index of quake photos