It will soon be three years since the Great East Japan Earthquake happened. Much effort has been put into reconstructing the damages from the incident. Through this time’s JET Study Tour, we learned about the current situation in parts of the Sousou area. One of the highlights of the trip was the strawberry orchard. We learned about the tough times the people had faced and the volunteer efforts that helped them overcome the situation. This is a true display of ‘kizuna.’ The results of this ‘kizuna’ allowed us to enjoy the delicious strawberries of Wada Strawberry Orchard. ‘Kizuna’ brings people together. The result of it helped the people of Fukushima and the people of Japan get back on their feet. After listening to many people talk about their experiences throughout the November and February tours, I realized the similarities in their perspectives. Although the kamaboko factory, Tomatoland Iwaki, Matsukawaura Fishery Cooperative, Wada Strawberry Orchard, and so on, all suffered similar but different difficulties due to the earthquake, they all received much help from people across the nation and around the world. To them, money is not the way to repay the efforts of the people that helped them; rather, showing them their recovery as a result of their efforts, is the right way to show their appreciation. The second day of the tour began with a visit to Minami Soma City and the disaster-affected areas. As I held back my tears, I listened to Ms. Ambe, a volunteer guide, retell her recollection of the Odaka district situation. It reminded me of that day 3 years ago. It will be a memory never forgotten. The tours in particular, have brought back memories from three years ago. I’m very thankful for the tours because they remind me of the memories that I don’t want to forget. Another highlight of the trip was the Minami-Soma Solar Agri-Park. We listened to Mr. Hangai talk about creating experience-based learning opportunities for the children of our future. Renewable energy sources are beginning to play an increasingly important role in Japan’s future, especially following the nuclear accident. It is important that children learn about them. After an informative talk about their organization, we went outside and tried the PV Solar experimental device. Reacting like twelve-year-olds, we were excited as the power generated from the device jumped from under 100W to over 1500W in a matter of seconds. It was another fun and informative Study Tour! I’m sure many of us will be back to watch the famous Nomaoi Festival and to fulfill our promise with Mr. Hangai! |  |
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