Japan is on high alert as it prepares to face its most formidable typhoon of the year, Shanshan. 

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has raised its warning level for wind and storm surges on the main southern island of Kyushu, prompting authorities to urge tens of thousands of residents to evacuate.

"Typhoon Shanshan is expected to approach southern Kyushu with extremely strong force through Thursday and it may make landfall,” said Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.

"It is expected that violent winds, high waves, and storm surge at levels that many people have never experienced before may occur," Hayashi added.

The forthcoming storm, with winds reaching speeds of up to 252 kilometres (157 miles) per hour and causing heavy rainfall across the area, led auto manufacturer Toyota to suspend production at all 14 of its factories.