As the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake approaches in March 2025, various reflections emerge on the seismic event that left indelible marks on Japan's landscape and social fabric. This year's anniversaries are marked by sobering reminders of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals and organizations dedicated to preserving the memory of the tragedy and advocating for disaster preparedness amid dwindling resources.
The situation is particularly dire for private organizations that have played a crucial role in conveying lessons learned from the disaster. These organizations have received funding from the national government, which is expected to significantly decline by the end of fiscal year 2025, following the completion of the second phase of recovery and revitalization efforts. The anticipated cuts are prompting concerns about their ability to continue their vital work amidst rising operational costs and diminishing financial support.
NHK Announcer Mako Kuwako, reflecting on her career during a press conference on March 20, also underscored the emotional weight of covering the earthquake's aftermath. Kuwako was deeply affected by her experiences in the affected areas, recalling the striking contrasts between the vibrant lives that existed before the disaster and the rubble that came to symbolize destruction. “I can never forget what I witnessed,” she said, emphasizing the importance of conveying the truth behind the statistics and making those experiences relatable to future generations.
Evidently, her collective experience encapsulates a broader theme as the media industry evolves. On March 24, 2025, an NHK special program titled 'Close-up Gendai' will commemorate the milestone of 100 years since NHK began broadcasting. The show features discussions with notable figures such as former Nippon Television announcer Takami Fujii and former Fuji Television announcer Tomoko Nagano, addressing how media can nurture understanding and remembrance while adapting to the rapidly shifting landscape shaped by digital transformation.
In a notable development, Fujikura Composites, known for its high-performance carbon shafts, has resumed manufacturing operations at its main factory in Minamisoma, Fukushima. The facility was out of commission for 13 years following the earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011. It finally reopened in October 2024, a significant step towards revitalizing the local economy and restoring livelihoods in the region.
During her visit to the factory, factory manager Yumi Ishibe recalled the horrific earthquake, describing the intensity of the tremor, which reached a magnitude of 9.0. “The shaking was so strong that nobody could take shelter under a table,” she said, sharing that many employees were in the break room when it struck, allowing them to evacuate safely. This preparatory training proved essential, preventing injuries and saving lives.
The cataclysmic event, however, was only the beginning of the challenges faced by the factory. Following the earthquake, a tsunami over 9 meters high surged inland, devastating Minamisoma. “We were completely unprepared for such a massive tsunami, but fortunately, our factory was slightly elevated and located away from the immediate coastline,” explained production leader Toshiyuki Shoji.
Today, Fujikura Composites highlights the resilience and determination of the Minamisoma community as the factory works to contribute to the broader recovery. The reopening of the facility represents hope and progress, serving as a reminder that recovery comes amid hardship.
In a related initiative to remember and honor the past, an exhibition showcasing photographs and accounts from the Great East Japan Earthquake opened on March 13, 2025, at the Aomori City Museum 'Kanami.' This exhibition aims to convey the powerful stories of loss and survival, reminding visitors of the profound impacts of the disaster and nurturing a culture of remembrance.
These combined efforts to memorialize the 2011 tragedy illustrate the ongoing dedication of organizations and individuals committed to keeping the memory of the earthquake alive. Schools are also stepping up with events designed to engage students in the broader narrative of what happened, ensuring younger generations are informed about the lessons learned from that fateful day.
In summary, as Japan reflects on the Great East Japan Earthquake’s legacy, it’s vital to recognize the intertwined stories of loss, recovery, and the enduring human spirit that continues to inspire hope amid challenges. The collective memories of tragedy compel society to focus on resilience and preparation for future disasters, continuing the critical discussion that started 14 years ago.
