What do places like Japan do to make the buildings stronger for when there is an earthquake?

Question

I really need the answers by the end of the day (15th April)

Answer 1

they don't necessarily have to be stronger if they can flex when the quake hits - special structures allow for this

Answer 2

On the  contrary, Japan, --which takes many earthquake hits, doesn't necessarily rely on STRONGER buildings, but rather more FLEXIBLE buildings.  Buildings that allow for sway and shimmy. This reduces damage to critical support structures, and thus less damage overall.  Where you see massive damage from earthquakes, is usually from buildings and homes of poor construction quality....mud, bricks, substandard  and inferior NON-steel reinforced concrete and the like.  Some contractors cut corners and boost profits by illegally "forgetting" to put in the steel reinforcement, which is costly....or using less of it, or poor quality materials. If all such laws were STRICTLY enforced, there would be less damage., generally speaking---but graft and corruption is rampant worldwide.  Money talks.