A sequence of laboratory experiments using solitary waves was performed to model the effect of leading form of three types of tsunamis (a bore,an impinging wave and an overtopping wave) on a seawall on a sloping beach.The wave evolution process,impinging pressure along the seawall surface,total overtopping discharge behind the seawall and the maximum run-up height on the rear slope were measured and compared.Laboratory data were employed to re-examine relevant empirical formulae in the literature.The effect of the presence of the seawall in reducing maximum run-up height using the present setup was briefly discussed.The present data can be used for calibrating numerical and mathematical models.