Before going to Japan, I had a general understanding of the country’s history and challenges. In general when doing individual research you learn about history through videos and articles, being able to experience these stories firsthand from people directly impacted brings a completely different perspective and level of understanding.
Inside Kadonomaki Elementary School Ruins
Kadonomaki Elementary School Ruins (Outside)
Visiting some of the sites affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami is something I will never forget. Early in the program we visited the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear power plant, a decommissioned site due to the damage caused by the tsunami and earthquake. The town went from a thriving city to a ghost town because the radioactive material in the air from the explosion. We also visited schools that had been directly impacted by the tsunami. First at Kadonowaki Elementary School we were able to walk through what remained of the building. Classrooms were still partially intact, with school and children’s belongings left behind as if it was frozen in time. At Okawa Elementary School , we saw before and after images of the school where many lives were tragically lost. These experiences show the human toll of natural disasters thats more than the numbers. Seeing the impact on the community is a reminder that behind the destroyed building and overgrown grass there are communities and people that leave behind stories and memories.
We visited Ishinomaki Red Cross Hospital learned about its emergency preparedness and medical activities during the earthquake and tsunami. Through a documentary we saw how the hospital staff came together quickly and effectively to care for patients under the circumstances of a natural disaster. It was a very eye opening experience to the power of collective action, teamwork and preparedness during a crisis.
Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome
While we do learn about Hiroshima in the U.S. education system the perspective is often limited. Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum allowed me to understand the tragedy from the viewpoint of the victims and those who lived through it. Walking through the museum you see the stories of individuals, families, and the long-term effects of the atomic bombing.
We also had the pleasure of meeting a Hiroshima survivor. Through our conversation, we learned about the symbol of the paper crane (orizuru) which is a symbol of peace and a world free from nuclear weapons. The story comes from Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who developed leukemia as a result of radiation exposure from the bombing. While undergoing treatment, she began folding paper cranes, inspired by the Japanese belief that anyone who folds 1,000 cranes will have their wish granted. Her story left a lasting impression on me and reminded me of the resilience and hope of the Japanese people.
Children’s Peace Memorial
It’s one thing to learn about history from afar, but meeting survivors, walking through affected areas, and hearing firsthand accounts brought a new level of understanding. This trip gave me a fresh new lens to view not only Japan but the world.