A massive earthquake hit the Japanese Archipelago, registering a magnitude of 8.6, with its epicenter located near Suruga Bay. This significant seismic event occurred in the late morning, inflicting tremendous destruction across numerous regions, particularly in the Tokai area. Cities such as Hakone, Gotemba, and even nearby areas like Edo (modern-day Tokyo) experienced shockwaves and severe infrastructural damage. Reports detail entire villages razed to the ground, leading to an immediate and distressing loss of over 5,000 lives. The Hōei earthquake was a critical reminder of Japan's vulnerability to natural disasters due to its geologically active position on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

The aftermath of the earthquake revealed a landscape of despair, as not only were lives lost, but homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods were devastated. Many survivors faced homelessness, while local economies struggled to rebuild amidst the widespread destruction. Tsunamis that followed the quake added to the fatalities, washing away coastal communities and contributing to the devastation. The government mobilized to assist affected populations and initiated infrastructure reconstruction efforts. Through significant social and economic challenges, Japan's resilience became evident as communities banded together to recover and restore their lives.

In the broader context, the Hōei earthquake has a lasting legacy in Japan's history concerning disaster preparedness and response strategies. Following this event, the need for improved construction techniques was recognized, leading to advancements in seismic research and measures to mitigate damage from future earthquakes. This tragedy laid the groundwork for developments in public awareness about earthquake risks and significantly shaped Japan's approach to disaster management over the centuries.