On January 17, 2025, communities across Japan marked the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake with solemn commemorations and reflections on the transformative impact of this tragic event. This earthquake struck at 5:46 AM on January 17, 1995, with its epicenter near Awaji Island, registering magnitude 7.3 and causing devastation primarily across the Kansai region. The disaster claimed 6,434 lives, injured approximately 44,000 people, and left over 105,000 homes completely destroyed. The memory of the lives lost and lessons learned continues to resonate deeply within affected communities today.
Among the significant ceremonies, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visited Hyogo Prefecture to engage with survivors and honor those who perished. Their attendance underscored the national significance of remembrance and resilience. During their visit, they met with survivors like Shuhei Arakawa, who shared harrowing accounts of enduring both physical and emotional scars from the disaster. Their presence at the commemorations brought renewed attention to the historical event and revitalized individual and communal reflection.
The gatherings included emotional moments of silence, wherein attendees, including the emperor and empress, bowed their heads at the exact time of the earthquake. At Higashi Yuenchi Park, where tributes and memorial lanterns were lit, nearly 6,434 lanterns formed the words 'Yorisou' ('to be close to each other'), embodying collective memory and solidarity within the bereaved. Genki Hasegawa, who lost his mother and younger brother during the quake, delivered poignant remarks about cherishing life, saying, "One day at a time, cherish life. This is ingrained within our hearts as we continue to navigate life without them.”
Another notable tribute came from Japan's baseball legend, Ichiro Suzuki, who reflected on the emotional toll of the earthquake. Suzuki, who was only 21 at the time and living near the disaster’s epicenter, acknowledged its lasting impact on him. "Kobe remains special to me. The quake taught us to appreciate every moment," he said during his induction speech, reminding the audience of the importance of shared experiences as they relate to collective and individual resilience.
The earthquake led to significant changes including stricter building codes and the introduction of disaster preparedness training programs. The concept of 'creative recovery' emerged, leading to various redevelopment projects aimed at not just recovery but also revitalization of the region. The lessons learned from the tragedy continue to shape the discussion around disaster preparedness across Japan.
Research conducted by NHK revealed concerning statistics indicating complacency with the memory of the earthquake. Over 60% of respondents felt memories or lessons were fading among younger generations. This highlights the necessity for continued outreach and education surrounding such disasters. Group sessions where survivors share their experiences have been encouraged, promoting awareness of vulnerability to natural disasters and the need for preparedness, especially for future generations.
Many communities included workshops and educational sessions on disaster readiness, emphasizing the need for homes to withstand potential future earthquakes. Reports indicate progress with over 2 million homes now equipped with seismic upgrades since the event. Programs developed by local governments, including earthquake drills and safety education for schools, aim to instill the lessons learned during the 1995 quake.
Apprehension remains as experts warn of new challenges, including the potential for future seismic activity. Discussions around the impending dangers of earthquakes have become urgent, especially with recent incidents such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Local and national leaders stressed these reminders during the ceremonies, underscoring the need not only to commemorate but to act.
The legacy of the Great Hanshin Earthquake is not simply about remembering loss but also affirming resilience and promoting preparedness. The recent commemorations act as pivotal reminders for communities to remain vigilant against such disasters. Genki Hasegawa captured this sentiment succinctly when he stated, "Lessons learned must be passed on to future generations," reinforcing the notion of active retention of the past to secure the future. Therefore, as Japan reflects on three decades since the catastrophe, the call to action remains clear: individuals and communities alike must prepare, educate, and unite to mitigate the impacts of future disasters.