Japan is bracing itself for what could be its heaviest rain and winds for 60 years as Typhoon Hagibis edges closer.

Hagibis is hitting winds of 180km/h which could cause floods and landslides, the Japan Meteorological Agency says.

The typhoon is expected to hit the most populous island of Honshu today.

Shops, factories and train networks have been shut down while the Rugby World Cup and the Formula One Grand Prix are facing disruption.

Authorities have issued evacuation advisories in areas at particular risk, while supermarkets are running low on stocks as people buy supplies before the typhoon hits.