HafH and Odaka Pioneer Village’s 3rd learning project on Great East Japan Earthquake

HafH and Odaka Pioneer Village collaborated on a project to educate people on the current status and challenges of recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake. The third fieldwork was conducted in the area affected by the tsunami and participated in the 3.11 Memorial Event at the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum.

The project’s aim was for participants to learn about nuclear disasters and deepen conversations on a common theme. Despite some participants living in Tohoku since the earthquake, they had few opportunities to learn about nuclear disasters. The fieldwork gave them a different perspective and made them realize that the reconstruction was still in progress. Participants visited the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum to learn about nuclear disasters and engaged with local people during marche events held in Namie Town and Okuma Town.

Fukutaro Noguchi, Odaka Pioneer Village Community Manager, commented that even after 12 years, there are still dark shadows cast in the area affected by the disaster. However, he believes it is the most passionate area in Japan where new people, things, and initiatives are continuously emerging. He encourages people to visit the Fukushima coastal area and witness its changing landscape to contribute to the area’s recovery.

Read more on regional revitalization in Japan