In this study, an externally reinforced structural system for SMC(Sheet Molding Compound) panel water tank, designed according to the Japanese design code, is experimented to evaluate its seismic performance. The test tank is 3m long, 2m wide and 3m high, considering the capacity and size of the shaking table. The measured hydrodynamic pressures are found to be approximately 70% of the Japanese design code values. It may be partially due to the convex shape effect of the unit panels. The analytical results of externally reinforced system based on the measured dynamic water pressures are found in good agreement with the test results. If the design hydrodynamic pressures are estimated properly, the proposed analytical model for the externally reinforced water tank becomes a useful design tool and the Japanese design code is found to provide a safe design for the external frames of SMC panel water tank.