On January 17, 2025, the world will mark the 30th anniversary of the Kobe-Awaji Great Earthquake, known for its catastrophic impact on the region and its residents. Nearly 6,400 lives were lost, and the aftermath saw extensive destruction across Kobe, highlighting the need for remembrance and preparedness as communities reflect on the lessons learned over the past three decades.
Commemorative events are set to take place across the region. Among these is the nationwide release of the film 港に灯がともる (A Light at the Port), which poignantly captures the essence of loss, struggle, and regeneration after the devastation of the earthquake. The narrative centers on Akari, a woman born shortly after the disaster, emphasizing the struggles of those who have grown up without directly experiencing the earthquake's destruction, yet still feeling its repercussions deeply within their families.
According to reports from various media, more than half of Kobe's current population has no direct memory of the earthquake, creating what many are calling 'a gap of experience.' With many newcomers to the city, including those born after the disaster, it becomes increasingly important for existing residents to pass on the memories and lessons gleaned from the tragedy.
One of the poignant reflections from journalist Sonoko Miyazaki remarks on how time alters perception. She states, “The 30 years since have led to many who have no clear point of reference. The experience of others can be quite hard to grasp.” This sentiment reflects the challenge of preserving history as generational experiences fade.
On the same day, Kinki University Kindergarten will conduct earthquake evacuation drills aimed at strengthening preparedness among children and faculty members against potential seismic events. This initiative shows the intention to build resilience within the community and empower individuals to act decisively during emergencies.
The kindergarten's evacuations will educate 117 students and 17 staff members on effective response techniques during earthquakes, promoting learned behaviors such as remaining calm and quickly moving to safety.
Further enhancing earthquake preparedness, the city of Awaji has introduced virtual reality (VR) systems at the Northern Awaji Earthquake Memorial Park. Attendees can experience simulations of the tremors at quake levels comparable to those endured during the Kobe-Awaji Earthquake. This engaging method serves as both educational and preparatory, particularly for younger generations who did not witness the actual event.
Interestingly, the Kinki University Kindergarten drills will reinforce lessons driving safety, such as the principles of 'Ohashimo' which teaches children not to push, run, speak, or return for personal belongings during evacuations. This simple mnemonic device exemplifies how educational institutions are taking the necessary steps to prepare the next generation.
To share insights and lessons learned, the Kansai Gakuin University Disaster Recovery Institute is organizing a joint Japan-Korea symposium on January 13, 2025. This event aims to address international cooperation and resilience building among communities, focusing on the shared lessons from the 1995 disaster, underlining the importance of collaboration across borders to mitigate future disasters.
Experts will gather to exchange views on community roles and challenges during disaster recovery processes, discussing topics like regional disappearance and sustainable disaster recovery—issues increasingly relevant as climate conditions evolve.
The overarching theme of these various commemorative initiatives remains clear—remembrance not only honors the past but shapes the future. The generations who lived through the terrible shaking of 1995 are tasked with ensuring their memories inform the actions taken today as communities assess how best to cope with inevitable natural disasters.
Across numerous platforms and events, the message is clear: preparation, remembrance, and resilience are key to facing the uncertain future. By reflecting on the past, communities can forge stronger, more aware populations capable of reacting with wisdom and courage when faced with the challenges of nature.