Historical information related to tsunamis generated in the Nankai Trough was compiled to examine their frequency and associated destruction. Types of damage in a wide area throughout western Japan from Boso to Kyushu, Susaki, Kochi, and Osaka were selected to elucidate tsunami behavior and damage to areas where multiple damage to facilities was reported, such as that to floated ships, bridge destruction, and road blockage by strong current and floating materials such as destroyed house and ships. After reviewing the tsunami physics and damage from recent events including that related to 2004 Sumatra, suggestions are offered to mitigate future disasters.