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Japan’s history of natural disasters has shaped its resilience and preparedness. My recent visit to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital and Okawa Elementary School provided a look into the impacts of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 and the country’s efforts to rebuild and learn from the tragedy.

Learning at Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital

Our journey began with a bus ride to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital, a key facility during the disaster. Upon arrival, we entered a gym-like room filled with tables where we settled in to watch videos and attend lectures detailing the hospital’s response during the earthquake and subsequent tsunami. The Great East Japan Earthquake, a magnitude 9.0 quake, struck on March 11, 2011, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The hospital played a critical role in treating the injured patients amidst challenging conditions.

The lectures were enlightening, explaining how the hospital quickly adapted to the crisis. After the lectures they showcased makeshift setups used during such emergencies, including cardboard beds, portable toilets, and tents. I was particularly impressed by the cardboard beds, which were very sturdy and comfortable. 

Example of the cardboard beds

A Somber Visit to Okawa Elementary School

After lunch at Aeon Mall, we continued our journey to Okawa Elementary School, a site deeply affected by the tsunami. Upon arrival, we met our tour guide, a father who lost his daughter, Mai, in the disaster. His firsthand account added depth to the tour as we walked through the remains of the school.

The devastation was apparent, with the school almost entirely destroyed. Our guide recounted the tragic events of that day, highlighting that many students and teachers lost their lives. He led us up a hill behind the school, a route that, if taken that fateful day, could have saved lives. Reaching a platform where classes were sometimes held, we could see the entire school grounds, bringing the scale of the tragedy into sharp focus.

One moment from the tour that resonated deeply with me was when our guide shared, “I still see daughter Mai in my dreams, but she’s still 12.” His words underscored the enduring pain and loss experienced by the families affected by the disaster. It was a powerful reminder of the human cost of such events and the importance of preparedness and swift action.  

View from hill of Okawa Elementary School

Reflections on Resilience and Preparedness

This visit underscored the resilience of the Japanese people and their commitment to learning from past tragedies. The Great East Japan Earthquake prompted significant advancements in disaster preparedness, evident in the measures showcased at Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital. The hospital’s ability to adapt and provide care in extreme conditions is a testament to the effectiveness of these preparations.

Okawa Elementary School stands as a somber reminder of the importance of swift decision-making during disasters. The tragic loss of life could have been mitigated with quicker action and better preparedness. The stories and experiences shared by our guide highlighted the critical need for continuous improvement in disaster response strategies.

In conclusion, my visit to Nisseki Ishinomaki Hospital and Okawa Elementary School was a deeply moving and educational experience. It emphasized the importance of resilience, preparedness, and learning from past events to better protect communities in the future. Japan’s ongoing efforts to enhance disaster response and recovery serve as a powerful example for the rest of the world.

Japan is renowned for its meticulous disaster preparedness, and my recent visit to the Tokyo Fire Department Honjo Citizen Disaster Prevention Education Center underscored this reputation. After a lunch stop at Sangubashi Station, we made our way to this facility, designed to educate and prepare citizens for various natural disasters.

The Great Kanto Earthquake Film

Upon arrival, we checked in and headed upstairs to watch a short film about the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The film offered a poignant perspective through the eyes of a woman who documented her experiences during the catastrophic event. The narrative provided a moving account of the earthquake’s impact, setting the tone for the rest of our visit. One point in the film that stuck with me was the scene of the fire tornado and the visuals showed everyone running around with the woman just staring from fear.

Experiencing an Earthquake

Next, we went to the first floor for an earthquake simulation. Before stepping onto the simulator, our guide briefed us on Japan’s rigorous earthquake preparedness measures. These include regular drills, early warning systems, and robust building codes designed to withstand seismic activity.

The simulation itself was intense. We experienced a magnitude 7 earthquake on a platform equipped with mats. In proper earthquake drill formation—on our knees, heads covered—we braced ourselves as the simulation began. The sheer force of the simulated quake was surprising, and it was a struggle to maintain my position as the ground shook violently beneath me. 

Earthquake simulation room

Learning About Fire Safety

Following the earthquake simulation, we went upstairs to a fire prevention session. Seated in front of a board, we listened as our guide explained various fire hazards and safety measures. The board then slid back to reveal a life-sized bedroom setup. We watched a scenario unfold where a curtain caught fire from an electrical outlet, learning crucial steps to take in such an event.

The fire safety lesson culminated in a fire escape simulation. Navigating a smoke-filled room, we practiced escaping with handkerchiefs covering our mouths and noses, crouching low to avoid smoke inhalation. This hands-on experience was fun, but it also reinforced the importance of quick thinking and preparedness in fire emergencies. 

Walking through the smoked room

The Rainstorm Simulation

One of the highlights of the visit was the rainstorm simulation. After putting on rain boots and large raincoats, we entered a room equipped with bars to hold onto. The simulation began with heavy rain and strong winds, creating a realistic storm environment. Even though we were wearing masks to prevent water from getting on our faces, it still managed to get in my mouth and face. The intensity of the rain and wind made it a fun experience, since it sort of felt like a care wash. This simulation shows the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for such conditions. 

Rainstorm simulation

Flood Preparedness: Door and Car Door Simulations

The final part of our tour focused on flood preparedness. We were led to an area with two different door setups—a regular door and a car door—each designed to simulate varying levels of water pressure. The objective was to push the doors open until a bell rang, indicating successful escape from floodwaters. I was proud to manage both doors at their highest difficulty settings, which simulated the immense force of floodwater. 

Nearly a decade after the catastrophic events of March 11th, 2011, the scars of the disaster will still remain, serving as a reminder of the power of nature and the potential hazards of nuclear energy. Visiting the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant was a very profound experience.

Upon arriving at the exclusion zone, the atmosphere noticeably changed. The ones bustling small towns now stood yearly silent, and there were many abandoned buildings and overgrown vegetation, showcasing how sudden the event was. The sense of isolation was perceivable, and I felt a deep sense of regret for all the lives affected by the disaster.

Our group first viewed the museum dedicated to this disaster. Then we took a tour of the power plant itself. Our group was briefed on the safety protocols as well as equipped with protective gear before heading closer to the plant. The route took us through areas that were gradually being decomposed and reopened.

At the site, we were guided through a controlled tour by Tepco (the Tokyo Electrical Power Company). The plant was a maze of machinery and structures, and many of them were heavily damaged by the initial earthquake and tsunami. Other parts of the plant were rebuilt or reinforced as part of ongoing decomissioning work. Sitting near the reactor, we could see the ongoing decommissioning work occurring as well as just how grave the disaster really was.

The decommissioning process is a huge, huge task. We learned all about Tepco’s work to decommission these reactors. They’re using various new technologies and international cooperation, and the work is expected to take decades to complete.

The work involves removing highly radioactive fuel rods from reactor buildings, treating contaminated water, and dismantling damaged reactors. Each step takes meticulous planning and commitment to safety.

One of the most challenging aspects this corporation has to deal with is the amount of contaminated water. TEPCO has been working on advanced water filtration devices to remove the radioactive isotopes from the water, and storage tanks have been constructed to hold treated water.

Another thing they needed was help with their decommissioning efforts. Robots are deployed into areas with high radiation levels to remove debris and perform tasks that are too dangerous for humans. The robots are equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to provide valuable data and aid in the safe decommissioning process.

Reflecting on my visit, I was reminded of the fragile nature of the environment and the need for responsible energy practices. The Fukushima Daiichi disaster highlighted the importance of safe energy practices. It also showcased the potential dangers of nuclear power.

Visiting the Fukushima Daishee nuclear power plant was an eye-opening experience and also deepened my understanding of the complexities and challenges of nuclear energy.

Our group embarked on two tours: the Loop Route 7 Underground Regulation Pond and the Hikarigaoka incineration plant. These tours showcased Japan’s approaches to flood control and waste management.

The Underground Regulation Pond Tour in Honan Town

Our day began in Honan Town with a tour of the Loop Route 7 Underground Regulation Pond. Upon arrival, we changed into appropriate footwear and settled into a meeting room where we were introduced to the reservoir system through an informative presentation. Japan receives an immense amount of rainfall, making it crucial to have a system in place to manage excess water and prevent flooding. The regulation pond is part of an extensive underground network that collects rainwater from rivers like the Kanda River and stores it until it can be safely returned once water levels subside.

Following the presentation, we explored a room next door that featured detailed dioramas illustrating the reservoir’s mechanics. These models demonstrated the process of diverting water from the Kanda River to the reservoir, a crucial step in flood prevention.

The highlight of the tour was going down

into the actual tunnels used to hold the water. The vastness of the tunnel was both impressive and eerie, with its enormous size and occasionally walking in the water. The walls were marked with numerous cracks, each labeled with katakana symbols such as “u” and “hi.” At the tunnel’s end, it branched into two directions, allowing us to take photos, making echoes, and even experience complete darkness by turning off our flashlights. This adventure concluded as we resurfaced, marking the end of an enlightening tour.

Art within the Underground tunnel

The Hikarigaoka Incineration Plant Tour 

After a quick lunch at a mall in Hikarigaoka, conveniently located near our next destination, we proceeded to the incineration plant. The plant, crucial to Tokyo’s waste management system, processes the city’s trash in an environmentally responsible manner. This was a topic that I had to research for our project presentations, so I was very excited to see the actual thing.

Our visit began with a presentation video in a meeting room, providing an overview of the plant’s operations. As the video concluded, the blinds rose to reveal a live view of trucks unloading waste into a massive pit. This was followed by a tour of the control rooms, where we observed the crane maneuvering the trash.

We then explored a room with floor panels displaying a map of the trash collection and transportation routes to the plant. The visit continued down a hallway with a glass window showcasing the incinerator. The heat emanating from the incinerator could be felt through the glass, underscoring the immense energy involved in the process. Our tour concluded with a group photo in front of a replica crane, capturing the day’s unique experience.

Crane used to mix and carry trash

Photo in front of replica of the crane

Visiting Tokyo Skytree at night was a mesmerizing experience and left me up in all of Tokyo’s dazzling skyline. Skytree Tower, at 634 m, is a marvel of modern engineering and provides a breathtaking view of the city illuminated by many lights.

When we arrived at Skytree that evening, we saw that the structure itself was glowing in a soft and colorful manner. The base of the sky tree is bustling with activity. There are shops, restaurants, and even an aquarium to explore. However, we all focused our excitement on getting to the top.

The elevator ride up to the tempo deck, located at 350 m above ground, was an experience in itself. Each elevator is themed for spring, summer, fall, and winter. We rode the winter elevator up, and it lit up in a calming blue light. When the elevator door was opened, I was surrounded by a panoramic view of the skyline, and it was spectacular.

Tokyo at night is a sea of lights. The city stretches out in every direction, and we could see some of the most famous landmarks, such as Tokyo Tower. The countless lights were mesmerizing and created a magical atmosphere that felt surreal.

One of the highlights of my visit was enjoying delicious ice cream while taking in the view. There’s nothing as special as indulging in a sweet treat when you’re gazing out over a city that seems to extend indefinitely in all directions. The cafe also offered a variety of other treats as well as drinks that you could enjoy.

The Sky Tree also featured a glass floor section that was standing on a transparent panel, looking straight down. This experience was both thrilling and very nerve-wracking. It gave us a unique experience of how high up we were and again showcased the engineering prowess that made Sky Tree possible.

As I wandered around the observation deck, I found myself captivated by the ever-changing lights below. The city’s energy and vibrancy were amazing. The experience was both peaceful and exhilarating, and it was a perfect blend of serenity and excitement.

The visit to Tokyo Skytree at night was undoubtedly a highlight of my trip to Japan. The combination of stunning views, ice cream, and the ambience of the night sky made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you visit it day or night, Tokyo Skytree will offer you a unique and awe-inspiring perspective on one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Going to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was a very emotional experience for me and has left an undeniable mark on my peers and myself. The museum is located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. As I walked through the gates, I was struck by the somber atmosphere but also by a sense of respect that surrounded the area.

The museum exhibits were designed to showcase the devastating impact of the atomic bomb but also to promote the message of peace. The first exhibit was multiple pictures of the city before and after the bombing. The difference between these two images was haunting. At first, it depicted a vibrant city, but then it transformed into a landscape of utter destruction in an instant.

One of the most sad moments was viewing the personal belongings of the victims. There are items such as a child’s tricycle, a uniform, and a watch, all of which were burned or melted, showing the grave human cost of this tragedy. Each item had a story, and as I read the descriptions, I could not help but feel the weight of this loss.

The museum also features testimonials from survivors. These accounts were also heart-wrenching and powerful. Listening to these stories, I felt a profound respect for their resilience and their commitment to advocating for peace. Their stories serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and preventing such a disaster from happening again.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum does not shy away from the brutal realities of war. The museum showcases the grim consequences of the atomic bombing. with such examples as images depicting the effects on humans after the bombing as well as art that depicts how many victims affected by the bomb were. The museum’s message is clear: we must learn from our past mistakes to ensure a better future. As I left the museum on the second day, I took a moment to reflect on the a-bomb dome. the skeletal remains of the building that would still stand after the blast. serves as a reminder of resilience and hope. My visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was a deeply moving experience, one that I will carry with me always. It reinforced the importance of peace and opened my eyes to the need for a continued effort for the world to be free of nuclear weapons.

Throughout the four or so weeks that my classmates and I were exploring Japan, there were some blatant (and not so blatant) differences between Japan and the United States. Here, I would like to discuss some of them and ways to adapt and thrive within a changing environment!

Metric versus Imperial System – this is a smaller difference between the two countries, but a frustrating one at times. Whether it be height, speed, weight, or distance, each measurement is different. I always used to think in “science” terms and use the universal 2.54 cm to 1 inch for length conversion. This one is easy peasy to overcome!

OHIO in flood tunnel.

Public Behavior – behavior in public may be the greatest difference between the US and Japan. Japan is known for its peaceful and respectful society, while Americans often praise being different and loud in the way they live. Loud and rowdy behavior is frowned upon in public places, especially trains, and it’s important to not take up more space than necessary. Walk on the left on sidewalks and stand on the left on escalators to fit in with the public. If you’re unsure of a standard or custom, do as the natives do, they will always know best!

Punctuality – as you will soon see, everything in Japan is perfectly on time. Punctuality is one of the biggest characteristics of the Japanese society, something you will need to learn to thrive. Give yourself enough time to get ready/eat/shop so you don’t inconvenience others or yourself if you are late. My professors always said that being early is on time and being on time is late, so prepare ahead of time.

Train Station at rush hour.

Public Transportation – this is one of the most advanced parts of Japan! The train and shinkansen lines are some (if not the) best in the world because of excellent engineering and punctuality of service. Because Japan’s trains are one of the main modes of transportation throughout the country, they have a constant need to be on time and operated well. Before going to Japan, I was nervous that I would not be able to understand the train system and inevitably get lost. However, I found that the train lines were all color coded and easy to follow and that trains ran very frequently, so missing one after program hours isn’t always a big deal.

Kindness – exploring a new country can be extremely nerve wracking, especially when you don’t understand the language. From the first week in Japan, I found that everyone I talked to was very kind and willing to help me, regardless of the language barrier. Most Japanese people are kind and patient with foreigners, especially when you ask for help. Google translate was a huge help during the trip so don’t be afraid to use it! Don’t take people’s help for granted either, thank them and use what they said to the fullest. You can meet some really amazing people while traveling if you only have the courage to speak up!

My wish at Haneda Airport!

New Experiences – try absolutely everything you can get your hands on, regardless of whether you think you’ll like it or not. Traveling new places is about experiencing new things, whether it be foods, conversation, people, or adventures. My motto anytime I travel is “try everything twice” and it’s one I’ll always live by.

Best of luck and enjoy,

-Lachlan 🙂

There were plenty of culture shocks that I experienced in Japan. The first thing that I noticed when exploring Tokyo for the first time was that everything was exceptionally clean; there was not a speck of litter to be seen anywhere unlike other big cities I have visited such as New York, Chicago, and Paris.

What is even crazier about this is that there are no trash cans to be seen in most places except for the occasional one in the subway stations. People are expected to carry their trash with them the entire day, which is vastly different than any other place I have been. Another culture shock is that there are no paper towels provided in public restrooms. This is probably also a result of there being no trashcans or an effort to reduce waste. Also, in regard to reducing waste, Japan has a complicated waste control system with many distinct categories of recycling, unlike the two-category system in the United States, simply trash and recycling. This is because Japan incinerates most of their waste which requires people to separate their recyclables into combustibles, non-combustibles, and plastic.

Another culture shock I experienced was that there are vending machines EVERYWHERE. On every corner there is a new vending machine with loads of good options inside. A personal favorite that me and my friends liked was a vitamin C drink. This is also interesting to me because this produces more waste that people have to carry around.

The other culture shock I experienced was that that there are no water fountains anywhere. This was not the most shocking to me because I have experienced this in other places like France. I am not sure what the reason is for this, but if I had to guess, it is so more people use the vending machines. My last culture shock and the biggest one is that you often see kids as young as 7 walking alone. At first when I saw this, I thought that these little kids were lost, especially when I saw them alone on the subways. Then, I looked into it and realized that it is quite common for young children to travel alone, and sometimes their parents even ask them to stop by the market to pick up something. This does make sense though because Japan is known for how safe it is, so there is less of a risk when sending children off on their own. I love exploring new places and seeing how different they are from where I’m from; the more different the better!

Japanese cuisine truly has something for everyone, especially in mega-cities like Tokyo! Here are some of my most and least favorites throughout our three-week study abroad trip to Japan.

⭐⭐⭐- good but nothing special

Oyakodon: a yummy chicken and egg bowl typically served with miso soup. The name oyakodon translates literally to “parent and child”. I found this dish during one of the many shopping sprees my friend Haruka and I took. It’s an easy introduction to Japanese cuisine that I enjoyed!

⭐⭐⭐⭐- memorable and delicious!

Gelato: I know, I know, not exactly Japanese but still delicious, nonetheless. Our group bought this from a gorgeous little store named Venchi in Chuo, a ward in Tokyo, and the raspberry dark chocolate combo was easily the best gelato I have ever had the pleasure of trying. We found this place (like most) while wandering in one of the many shopping centers during our free time (the perks of being a little too punctual)!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- would fly to Japan for this

Fruit Sandwiches: maybe one of the most aesthetically pleasing treats in the world, and maybe one of Japan’s most famous. I was so excited to get my hands on a fruit sando during my stay. So was the rest of the country because it took me about a week and a half to finally find a 7/11 with one in stock. The one you see below is filled with strawberries, peaches, custard, and whipped cream and tasted like heaven incarnate. I would live in Japan solely for these sandwiches.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- would fly to Japan for this

Japanese Pancakes: I had these on multiple occasions they were so good. Light and fluffy, yet somehow able to melt in your mouth, these pancakes are unforgettable. The first one I tried was topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and custard, while the second (only a few days later I’ll admit) featured strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries over vanilla ice cream and strawberry drizzle. They were both works of art.

Specifics of the Wagyu

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- this gets a 6 because my mouth will never be the same

Kobe Wagyu Beef: I have never had anything more glorious touch my tastebuds. If you have any opportunity to try Kobe beef, please do.

⭐⭐⭐⭐- memorable and delicious!

Tanghulu: also known as candied strawberries, I had only ever seen these in various animes I had watched. When I found these at a street vendor in Harajuku with a friend, I knew I had to try them! Tanghulu is so yummy but make sure to bring a mouthguard for the moment your teeth break through the sugar because it can be sharp. Overall a very fun and delicious experience!

⭐⭐⭐- good but nothing special

Okonomiyaki: while this was good for the first ten minutes I was eating it, I soon became tired of the giant mash of flavors and textures that it offered. Many of my classmates loved it, but I wasn’t a huge fan. I would only have this again once or twice but it was still a great flavor experience!

Visiting the Okawa Elementary school was heartbreaking and devastating to hear about and even more so when visiting. When researching this tragic incident for my background paper, I was not prepared for how emotional I would get and how it would affect me. I was shocked with how upset I was getting when reading the details. I could not believe that the students could have been saved if they had gone up the hill and the teachers didn’t tell them to come back to the courtyard.

On our way to the school looking outside the bus window it seemed like a normal small town until we reached the parking lot of the school. When approaching the school I could see the debris and damage that had occurred. It was surrounded by many tall trees and a large forest behind. Looking in front of the forest you could see a platform on a hill. This is the point where the students would have been safe had they made the climb up the hill. As I looked down from the hill I could imagine what the school looked like before the destruction with kids playing in the courtyard which broke my heart.

The father speaking about how he lost his daughter in the tsunami brought me to tears while we were walking around listening to him speak. It is so difficult to imagine how the parents of the children that passed away had felt, they dropped off their kids to school that day unaware that they would not see them again. One of the things the storyteller had mentioned that stood out to me was that people need to have a mental “switch” in their heads to get ready in an emergency. It is a lot easier said than done, but it taught me a lot about emergency preparedness and how you have to have the proper mentality. Normally, when I hear about people talking about being prepared for difficult situations they mention the practical and physical readiness but they fail to discuss how you have to be mentally ready which can be the difference of life or death. In addition, the situation emphasized having proper communication and the importance of community resilience. I am thankful for the experience of visiting Okawa Elementary school and I will keep the students and the teacher that lost their lives that day in my heart.